Section 1 EO M190.01 – PACK PERSONAL EQUIPMENT FOR AN AIRCREW SURVIVAL EXERCISE

The Core Layer (Upper Body)

This layer lies next to the skin. It should consist of a wool or synthetic undershirt or a long-sleeved thermal top. The garment should be close fitting but not tight. It should be made of a material that absorbs perspiration and moves it away from the skin. This layer must be kept as clean as possible to prevent dirt from clogging the pores of the fabric.

The Second Layer

The second layer should be loose fitting and should keep the blood vessels of the neck and wrists protected and warm. It could consist of a zip-up top with a high neck or a shirt with a collar. Sleeves should be able to be rolled up and cuffs should be able to be buttoned. In hot weather, this layer may be used as an outer layer.

The Outer Layer

The outer layer should be a jacket that is both wind resistant and waterproof depending on the climate. For example, in the Arctic, a padded, windproof parka is required for protection against cutting winds and extreme cold. It must be able to vent to avoid overheating. In temperate areas, rain is the most common cause of cold or discomfort. Waterproof outerwear should be worn.

Underwear (Lower Body)

Long thermal underwear is only necessary in temperatures below freezing. In the Arctic a “groin patch” of impermeable material prevents wind chill in that area. If underwear gets wet, it eventually dries. However, this problem can be avoided by wearing waterproof pants. In mild weather this layer may consist of cotton shorts.

Pants should allow freedom of movement and should be able to dry quickly. In very wet conditions, using a belt helps to prevent chaffing at the waist. Waterproof pants can be worn to help protect legs from rain, but may cause overheating. In very cold conditions, quilted over-trousers should be zipped over pants and boots for added protection.

Show examples of each piece of clothing during the explanation if available.

Wool

Advantages. Wool has insulating properties even when wet. It remains comfortable until it is soaked and smolders rather than melts when exposed to excessive heat.

Disadvantages. It is heavy when wet and takes time to dry. When it is worn next to skin, it may cause itching, and may shrink when washed.

Advantages. Cotton is durable, breathable and absorbs moisture. It is a good fabric for underwear and items worn next to the skin in warm climates.

Disadvantages. It may be heavy when wet and can shrink if it is dried at high temperatures. It may tear and burn easily. Also, it is not windproof.

Fleece or Pile

Advantages. As an outer layer, fleece forces moisture away from the body while keeping it warm. It is lightweight, hardwearing and does not absorb moisture.

Disadvantages. Fleece is not windproof and does not compress easily. It can collect balls of fluff on the outside after long use.

Synthetic Fabrics

Advantages. These fabrics allow sweat to evaporate while keeping rain and other moisture out. They are usually windproof and an excellent choice for an outer layer.

Disadvantages. The seams may come apart in water. In very wet conditions, the fabric pores may become clogged. The evaporation of sweat from the outside of the fabric may result in heat loss.

An acronym that can be used to remember the principles when selecting and wearing clothing in the field. COLD – Keep the garment Clean. Avoid Overheating. Wear it Loose and Layered. Keep it Dry.

Thick socks made of either wool or fiber-pile cotton are vital. Socks keep feet warm, dry and prevent footwear from rubbing against skin. Rubbing can cause blisters and chafing. In cold weather two pairs of socks, an outer layer and an inner layer, should be worn. The inner layer forces moisture away from the foot and move it to the outer layer to keep the foot dry. Socks should be changed daily before bed.

Boots with a hard sole and good cushion are just as important as socks. Being comfortable and stable makes for a more enjoyable time in the field. Ankle support is important in the prevention of ankle injury.

It is important to be prepared for any type of weather. Wearing a toque, scarf and mitts during cold weather prevents heat from being lost through the head. Mittens prevent injuries such as frostbite by keeping hands warm and blood circulating. During warm conditions, it is important to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect from the sun. Extended exposure to the sun can cause burns and sunstroke.

The objective of this activity is to have the cadets dress up one of their peers in clothing for the field and the climate.

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1.Lay out the clothing according to its category prior to starting the activity.

2.Assign a cadet to be the “model”.

3.Question the cadets on what piece of clothing the cadet should put on first in accordance with the layering principle.

4.Continue until the cadet in fully clothed for the field.

5.When the cadet is dressed, question the cadets on the advantages and disadvantages of the type of clothing chosen for each layer (this might be easier when the cadet is taking each layer off).

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While packing kit, ensure to place a large plastic bag inside the pack prior to packing it. This blocks moisture from reaching the contents. Each item should also be placed in a separate bag with the extra air removed to save space.

Place items in the pack by priority, with the most frequently used items on top or where easily accessible. The equipment needs to be placed in the pack so the weight is distributed and balanced appropriately. A poorly balanced pack can cause fatigue. The heaviest items should be placed near the bottom or the back of the pack to avoid back strain.

Ensure all items are secured to the pack to avoid losing items and having to constantly stop for adjustments.

Note. From Basic Essentials Backpacking, by Harry Roberts, 1989, Guildford, CT: The Globe Pequot Press.

Figure 1  A well-organized back pack

The tent should be placed on top of the pack with the sleeping bag and pad firmly attached under the backpack.

Food, clothing and a cooking kit are examples of what to place in the backpack itself.

Clothing should include extra socks, undergarments and polypropylene / synthetic t-shirt and pants.

Personal gear could include a first aid kit, waterproofed matches, flashlight, emergency candle and hygienic items. Items such as water bottle, stove, fuel canister, flashlight and a water filter can fit in the side pouches of the bag.

Demonstrate the packing of a backpack with the cadets performing the skill. The following activity will assist in allowing the cadets to practice the skill. Where the instructional environment does not allow for this option deliver it using the demonstration method.

The objective of this activity is to have the cadets practice effective techniques of packing personal equipment prior to participating in an aircrew survival exercise.

1.The cadets shall pack their own bag during this time following the instructor’s example.

2.The cadets are to use all materials that are given to them to pack their rucksack / backpack.

3.The cadets are to ensure their rucksack / backpack weight is evenly distributed.

1.Have the cadets pack their own rucksack / backpack using the materials provided by the instructor.

2.Upon completion, the instructor is to inspect the rucksack / backpack to verify all equipment is packed properly and that the weight is evenly distributed.

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Supervise the cadets’ packing method closely. It is advisable to have other instructors assigned to provide additional supervision and feedback to cadets during this activity. If the cadets do not bring their own kit, ensure that an interactive demonstration of each packing step is given.