Survival at Sea for Mariners, Aviators and Search and Rescue Personnel

http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA485550&Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf

This AGARDograph summarizes the current scientific knowledge of sea survival for mariners, aviators, search and rescue technicians and medical staff. The text discusses key issues such as drowning through cold shock and swimming failure induced by immersion in water particularly below 15 deg C, survival prediction curves and non-freezing cold injuries. It emphasizes the importance of integrating good human engineering practices at the beginning of a project involving survival equipment such as lifejackets, life rafts and lifeboats. Manikin testing to evaluate survival suit insulation is described. The latest helicopter ditching statistics and helicopter underwater escape protocols are presented. Practical advice is given on the causes and treatment of seasickness. Finally a discussion is had on the importance of understanding how humans mentally process information under stress and why this should be included in every survival school curriculum.