What position should a person assume if trapped in cold water to minimize heat loss?

The Heat Escape Lessening Position (HELP) is the most effective way to conserve body heat when trapped in cold water. This position involves drawing the knees to the chest and wrapping the arms around the legs, creating a compact shape that reduces the exposed surface area of the body. By minimizing exposure to the cold water, the body loses heat more slowly, which is crucial in preventing hypothermia.

This technique is especially beneficial because it allows the person's core temperature to be maintained while keeping vital organs insulated. The position is effective for individuals in a state of distress and provides a better chance of survival until rescue can be achieved.

In contrast, options like the crouched safety position, swim position, or rescue position do not adequately minimize heat loss. The crouched safety position might offer some warmth but does not specifically target heat conservation in cold water. The swim position actively exposes more body surface area to cold water, which would lead to increased heat loss. Lastly, the rescue position is designed more for assisting someone else rather than preserving one's own body heat.