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 TM 55-1905-219-14-2
2-209. LIFE BOATS (Cont).
In the warm climates, unless the body is kept cool by other means, a great amount of water is lost automatically by
evaporation from the skin in order to prevent the body temperature from rising. This extra loss can increase the daily
requirement of water from the 24 ounces (710 ml) average need in cool climates to as much as 80 ounces (2366 ml).
The extra loss may occur even though no perspiration is actually observed on the skin; therefore, when in the tropics
every effort should be made to use other measures that will cool the body.
It is better to conserve the water in the body by decreasing its loss through evaporation than by increasing the amount
consumed. It is emphasized that excessive sweating must be avoided. Procedures to control sweating are: During the
heat of the day in hot climates the clothing should be kept wet; however, an hour before sundown the clothes should be
allowed to dry thoroughly. Utilize the wind for this, but keep in the shade of the canopy. The wind is cooler, generally
speaking, than the direct rays of the sun and, therefore, should be used at every opportunity.
HAZARDS - Fear is a normal reaction to a lonely and relatively dangerous situation. At times it may seem that there is
no hope of rescue. Hunger, fatigue, thirst, and exposure may increase this fear. Hopefulness and rest are the only cure.
Remember that many men have been in your same predicament, lived, and recovered fully from the experience.
Occupy your waking hours with talking and singing. Get as much rest and sleep as possible. It is normal to see mirages;
they are optical effects and not symptoms of physical or mental disturbance. If you can be cheerful, it will be a tonic to
you and an encouragement to your companions.
MORALE - One of the most important factors affecting your well-being and your chances of survival when you are in a
life boat is your morale. It is essential that you plan activities carefully so that you get adequate rest, but at the same
time, keep busy a good part of the time. Try to work out some kind of a schedule of activity which includes rest, securing
fresh water, and so on. You will find that keeping yourself occupied according to schedule will not only help you take
care of your needs better but will also keep your in good spirits.
LEADERSHIP - In the life boat, experience shows that a group with a capable leader will not only be happier but will be
more skillful in coping with environmental problems of food, water, and shelter. As a leader, or as one who wishes to
cooperate, watch out for the man who becomes excessively noisy, especially if he then becomes depressed and
withdraws from the group. Some men may imagine things, such as people on an imaginary island nearby. Such men
may attack others or steal all the rations or water. Sleeplessness, pain, fear, hunger, and thirst are often factors in these
cases. The problem is to try to prevent this sort of degeneration of character.
2-770
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