US Army mountaineering techniques (basic)

After acclimatization, personnel injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, frostbite,
hypothermia, and trench foot pose many problems for medical personnel because
facilities and supplies may be inadequate to treat all patients. Evacuation of the sick and
wounded is compounded by the terrain and weather.
PART D - ILLNESS AND INJURY
To provide effective support during mountainous operations, certain medical aspects
must be considered. Personnel may suffer injuries and illnesses that are not associated
with other areas.
1. Evacuation and Treatment.
Since unit's aid stations cannot normally be reached by vehicle, due to rough terrain, it
may be necessary to use litter bearers to move casualties to the rear where they can be
evacuated by ground or air to clearing stations. Training must be accomplished with all
litter bearers on evacuation techniques and first aid. The most important course of action
is to provide injured soldiers with medical aid as soon as possible.
2. Cold-Weather Injuries.
Cold-weather injuries can occur during any season of the year. Most of these accidents
can be prevented by proper planning, to include: timely requisition and receipt of supplies
and proper clothing; thorough training of personnel with respect to the hazards of cold
weather; effective methods for the receipt, dissemination, and use of cold weather data;
periodic inspections of clothing, personnel, and equipment; and personnel receiving a
balance of water, rest, and nutrition. As a soldier, you must be prepared to survive, move,
and fight in winter conditions.
There are two types of cold-weather injuries: freezing and nonfreezing. The
freezing type is known as frostbite. The nonfreezing type includes hypothermia,
dehydration, trench foot, and immersion foot.
Significant injuries may occur when the temperature falls below 10 degrees C (50 degrees
F). Cold injuries result from impaired circulation, and the action of ice formation and
cold upon the tissues of the body.