A space blanket is used for emergencies that require your body temperature be maintained. In order to use a space blanket properly you need to know how the body loses heat and what this thin type of blanket can do to maintain the warmth you have in your body.
How it Works
A space blanket isn’t really a blanket, but an emergency device that is most often used in extreme cases where the person may suffer from hypothermia if the body temperature isn’t maintained. The body loses heat in several ways. Heat loss occurs through convection, radiation, evaporation, respiration and conduction. As the body is exposed to cold snow and cold wind the internal cooling process speeds up. Through convection, your body cools as you perspire and lose heat. As you breathe in the cold air, or through respiration, you also begin to cool.
A space blanket is often made from very thin sliver plastic sheeting that works in several ways. The reflective surface reflected the heat that literally radiates from your skin inside if used properly. The blanket also works to provide a barrier against the cold wind so that your body’s moisture evaporates at a slower rate. This type of blanket isn’t a heat source the same as other types of blankets but when used in conjunction with other insulators it can help bring your internal temperature back up.
Using Your Blanket
The space blanket that you have for emergencies needs to be used correctly to work. The blanket needs to form a seal around the body that keeps wind out and body heat in. You can form a seal around the feet by wrapping the blanket around the feet then taping or tucking the end of the blanket in place. You need for the blanket to be slightly loose around the body in order to maintain a warming layer of air as insulation. You will want the blanket to cover your entire body as well as the top of the head.
When using a space blanket in an emergency situation it is also helpful to use the blanket next to bare skin. Wrap the blanket around your body, and then use a second blanket over the top of your head to provide a full body covering. You will also want to use your space blankets with other types of blankets for the best result. Since space blankets don’t offer warmth the addition of wool or other warm material will increase the efficiency of your thin space blankets.
Being Prepared
When spending time in the outdoors, whether traveling in a car through a snowstorm or hiking in the winter, you should have a space blanket in your first aid kit along with other blankets and materials to provide warmth. A space blanket doesn’t take the place of traditional insulating blankets but can help you avoid hypothermia when used properly in an emergency situation. Remember to always keep other items for warmth with you, as well.
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