How many minutes of submersion must pass before SFFD can pronounce a person?

The standard guideline for submersion duration before a person can be pronounced deceased by the San Francisco Fire Department is based on research and protocols established for drowning incidents. A person must be submerged for at least 30 minutes prior to being declared dead. This time frame allows for a thorough assessment of potential survival chances, factoring in elements such as water temperature, the person's age, and any possible resuscitation efforts that may be underway.

Submersion duration is critical because it provides a significant window during which successful resuscitation could still be possible, especially in cases of cold water immersion, which may extend the survival window beyond typical expectations. It is essential for emergency responders to adhere to these guidelines to ensure that no potential opportunities for recovery are overlooked.