What must an immersion suit do for unconscious wearers?

An immersion suit is designed to provide thermal protection and buoyancy for individuals who may find themselves in cold water situations, particularly if they become unconscious. The critical function of an immersion suit for unconscious wearers is to ensure that their mouths and airways are kept clear of water, which is essential for breathing. This capability is crucial as it reduces the risk of drowning, even if the individual is unresponsive.

The design of the suit includes features that help maintain the wearer’s position in the water, ensuring that the head remains above the surface. This aspect of the suit is vital because even if someone is unconscious, the immediate danger is that their mouth could submerge underwater, leading to inhalation. The requirement for the suit to assist in this way, typically within five seconds, is a fundamental safety feature that underscores the importance of quick access to breathable air for someone who is incapacitated in water.

Other options do not address the primary life-saving function of the immersion suit for unconscious wearers as effectively. While factors such as keeping the wearer afloat or managing water entry have their significance, they do not specifically focus on the urgent need for immediate airway clearance, which is the most critical aspect when someone is unconscious in a survival situation.