SNOW BLINDNESS

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. 5-42