What measures can divers take to protect themselves from hypothermia?

Wearing appropriate exposure protection, such as wetsuits or dry suits, is crucial for divers to maintain their body warmth in cold water conditions. These types of suits are designed to provide insulation by trapping a thin layer of water against the skin, which the body warms up, effectively reducing heat loss. In colder environments, a dry suit is often recommended because it keeps the diver completely dry and allows for thicker insulation layers underneath, significantly reducing the risk of hypothermia.

While other options may seem appealing, they might not provide the comprehensive protection needed for a diver in cold water conditions. For instance, taking frequent breaks to warm up may not always be practical, especially if exposure to cold water is prolonged. Diving only in warm water can limit a diver's experience and opportunities in diverse environments. Using battery-operated heaters can be beneficial but also adds complexity and dependence on technology, which may fail or run out of power during a dive. Thus, wearing appropriate exposure protection remains the most effective and reliable method to prevent hypothermia while diving.