How long can a victim be submerged in water and still potentially survive without brain damage?

A victim can potentially survive for an extended period submerged in water due to a phenomenon known as the mammalian dive reflex. This reflex triggers several physiological responses that help preserve oxygen for vital organs, including the brain, during periods of submersion. Factors like water temperature also play a critical role; colder water can slow the metabolism and reduce the brain's oxygen requirements.

Research has shown that a person submerged for up to 66 minutes can, in some cases, emerge without significant brain damage, especially if the water is cold. In colder temperatures, the body's responses can increase the chance of survival by slowing the onset of hypoxia (lack of oxygen). This makes 66 minutes a more realistic threshold for potential survival without irreversible damage compared to the shorter durations listed in the other choices.