minus 70° F. in winter to 90° F. in summer. In order to survive, 

 much general knowledge, and a basic plan of survival are neces- 

 sary. The following is given as a guide, with numerous additions 

 suggesting themselves. 



Personnel should at all times be familiar with the area in which 

 they are operating so that, if shipwrecked, forced down in a plane, 

 or lost from a working party or group, the greatest use is made 

 of the environment. 



First aid treatment of the injured should be accomplished first. 

 Next, take every precaution to safeguard supplies and equipment. 

 In no event stray far from the original position until all hope for 

 rescue has been abandoned. 



Preparation should be made to signal rescuers, build a fire, erect 

 shelter, and ration available food to last as long as possible. 



See Polar Guide (AFTRC 50-0-23, revised 15 June 1948) 

 chapters 17 and 18. 



_ FIRST AID 



Injuries and sickness may occur in the Arctic as well as any- 

 where else. Treatment will be limited by the equipment available 

 but improvisation and common sense will do much to help. 



Shock. — This results from severe injuries, bleeding, or blast. 

 It is recognized by a sharp, thready pulse, moist, sweaty skin, and 

 rapid breathing. Emergency treatment demands the removal of 

 the cause, and control of bleeding. Warmth, shelter, and the 

 giving of warm fluids is next indicated. If severe pain exists, the 

 contents of a morphine syrette may be administered. 



Bleeding. — A tourniquet is rarely necessary. Most bleeding can 

 be controlled by the pressure of a battle dressing. Treatment for 

 shock is then indicated. 



Wounds. — A battle dressing, or any clean dressing should be 

 placed over the wound and firmly bandaged. 



Fractures. — "Splint them where they lie" is the first maxim for 

 fracture treatment. The important fact is that a fracture must 

 be immobilized. Pain will become much less, once proper splint- 

 ing has been performed. There are means for splinting avail- 

 able most everywhere. The upper or lower arm may be strapped 

 to the body ; the leg splinted by the other leg. If splinting is not 

 performed, serious damage may result to arteries and muscles or, 

 more important, shock will certainly ensue. Splints and bandages 

 should not be applied too tightly for fear of impairing the cir- 

 culation. 



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