Manual, NAVAIR 00-80T-101, will be useful in
combating exposure.
SNOW BLINDNESS.— Exposure to reflected
sunlight from snow, ice, or water, even on grey
overcast days, can result in sunburn of the tissues
comprising the surface of the eye, as well as the
retina, producing snow blindness.
Symptoms.— Symptoms may not be apparent
until up to 12 hours after exposure. The eyes
initially feel irritated and dry; then, as time passes,
eyes feel as though they are full of sand.
Blinking and moving the eyes may be extremely
painful. The eyelids are usually red, swollen, and
difficult to open.
Remedial Action.— A mild case will heal spon-
taneously in a few days, but you can obtain some
r e l i e f b y a p p l y i n g c o l d c o m p r e s s e s a n d a
lightproof bandage. An ophthalmic ointment can
be applied hourly to relieve pain and lessen the
inflammatory reaction.
W A R N I NG
Do not rub your eyes.
Prevention. — S n o w b l i n d n e s s c a n be
prevented by constant use of sunglasses or a tinted
helmet visor. If the glasses or helmet are lost, an
emergency set of goggles can be made from a thin
piece of leather, cardboard, or other lightproof
material. Cut the material the width of the face
with horizontal slits over the eyes. These impro-
vised goggles can be held in place with string or
cord from the parachute shroud lines attached to
the sides and tied at the back of the head.
As a first class or chief petty officer, you must
assume more responsibility for yourself and those
around you. You will be the resident expert in
matters of survival equipment. You will be
expected to teach your subordinate maintenance
personnel and your unit’s aircrewmen as well.
This means that you must continue to educate
yourself by studying everything available related
to survival equipment. You are a key factor in
the survival of those entrusted to your care.
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