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Chapter 7
Clothing for SAR
Objectives (1 of 3)
• List at least three characteristics in the various natural and synthetic materials used in the construction of clothing as used in SAR.
• List three of the factors concerning heat transfer due to clothing construction and/or design.
Objectives (2 of 3)
• Describe the function of each of the following layers of clothing: – Underneath layer – Wicking layer – Clothing layer – Insulation layer – Shell layer
Objectives (3 of 3)
• Describe the proper SAR clothing to be used in various environmental conditions.
• Describe some advantages and disadvantages of various types of outdoor footwear.
Clothing for the SAR Responder
• First line of defense in harsh conditions• Protects from cold-related injuries • Ensures comfort in adverse conditions
Natural Fiber Materials
• Derived from plants or animals • Natural fibers:
– Cotton – Wool – Silk – Down
Cotton
• Adequate for moderate climates– Breathable – Absorbs water
• Burns easily but does not melt
• Good insulator when dry, but poor when wet
Wool
• Maintains insulation when wet • Burns slowly, very resilient, breathable, and
durable • Gives off an unpleasant odor when wet• Inexpensive through military surplus supplier
Silk
• Very comfortable and light • Good insulating and wicking properties • Generally expensive • Not durable and damaged by perspiration and
sunlight
Down
• Light and very comfortable • Absorbs moisture readily • Excellent insulating properties when dry • Absorbs and retains odors and will mildew
when damp
Synthetic Fiber Materials
• Synthetic fibers are produced by chemical synthesis. – Nylon – Polypropylene – Polyester
Nylon
• Abrasion resistant and quick drying • Low moisture absorption and wicking
properties • Blends well with other fibers • Can be damaged by sunlight and melts when
on fire • Examples: Ripstop and Cordura®
Polypropylene
• Maintains insulative properties when wet • Repels and wicks moisture/water • High abrasion resistance • Easy care and non-allergenic • Melts at relatively low temperatures (160ºC or
320ºF) • Examples: Capilene™, Thermax™
Polyester
• Strong, durable, and inexpensive • Softer and lighter than any other synthetic
material • Will not absorb moisture • Poor wicking qualities • Examples: Polartec®, Polarguard™,
Primaloft®, Thinsulate™
Polartec®
• Warm, comfortable, and versatile • Not abrasion resistant • Quick drying • Resistant to stretching and shrinking
Polarguard™
• Used primarily as an insulator • Continuous fibers form air-trapping pockets. • Eliminates clumping and cold spots • Examples: Polarguard HV™, Polarguard
3D™
Heat Loss and Garment Features (1 of 2)
• Rate of heat transfer through clothing depends on: – Quantity and thickness of dead air space – Amount of air that passes through a
material – Water and moisture
Heat Loss and Garment Features (2 of 2)
• Closures need to be designed and applied properly. – Seams – Vents – Pockets – Reinforcements
The Layer System
• Layers of garments that can easily be added or removed: – Underneath – Wicking – Clothing – Insulation – Shell
The Underneath Layer
• For hygiene, discretion, and comfort • Socks
– One or two pair – Should not bunch– Should not cause constriction or abrasion
The Wicking Layer
• Moisture control and comfort • Ensure proper fit • Materials
– Thin silk or wool – Synthetics such as Capilene™, Coolmax®,
and Polartec®
The Clothing Layer
• Should offer some insulation and absorb moisture from layers beneath
• Loose fit and comfortable • Durability and snag/tear resistant • Consider visible colors.
The Insulation Layer
• Traps air between wicking and shell layers • Accomplished best with multiple layers rather
than one thick one • Don’t forget about your extremities.
The Shell Layer
• Protects against the elements • Must be strong and durable • Consider ventilation. • Hoods are highly recommended.• Should be bright color. • Research wisely: A good shell is an
investment.
Shell Options
• Waterproof Shell • Water-Repellent Shell • Water-Resistant Shell • Waterproof/Breathable
Shell
Other Clothing Considerations (1 of 5)
• The head – An unprotected head can be responsible
for half of the body’s heat loss. – Whole-head protection in cold
environments (balaclavas)– In hot environments, protect head from
external heat.
Other Clothing Considerations (2 of 5)
• Hands – Mittens keep generally keep hands warmer
but affect dexterity. – Leather gloves protect hands and improve
traction and grip. – Remember to protect the wrists.
Other Clothing Considerations (3 of 5)
• Feet – Examine and clean daily – Treat blisters and hot spots immediately. – Always wear clean, dry socks. – Have footwear fitted by a professional.
Other Clothing Considerations (4 of 5)
• Footwear – Proper fit and comfort – Adequate stability and support – Durability and good traction for
environment – Protection from the elements – Break in footwear before using the field.
Other Clothing Considerations (5 of 5)
• Gaiters – Protection against dirt, debris, snow, and
insects – Prevent layers from getting wet – Usually made of Cordura or ripstop and
coated with waterproofing agent – Available in two sizes
Clothing Purchase Suggestions
• Research and investigate before purchasing.• Plan ahead and buy off-season sale items. • SAR clothing is an important tool. • Take advantage of online discount retailers.