Which equipment is essential for dealing with hypothermia during water rescue?

When dealing with hypothermia during water rescue operations, the use of immersion suits is essential. These suits are specifically designed to provide thermal protection to individuals in cold water environments. Immersion suits effectively minimize the loss of body heat, helping to maintain core temperature and prolong survival in chilly conditions. They are constructed from materials that provide insulation while also being waterproof, thus preventing additional heat loss due to wetness.

In contrast, regular clothing does not offer adequate thermal protection and can actually exacerbate heat loss when wet. Wet suits, while useful in certain aquatic activities, do not provide the same level of insulation as immersion suits, especially in situations of prolonged exposure to cold water. Rafts, while useful for transport and rescue, do not serve the purpose of protecting an individual from hypothermia directly. Therefore, when it comes to effectively addressing hypothermia during water rescue, immersion suits are the best choice.