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A space blanket is a thin, lightweight emergency blanket made with heat-reflective material. It is also called an emergency blanket, rescue blanket, thermal blanket, or Mylar blanket. The shiny surface reflects radiant heat and the sheet can help reduce heat loss from wind and evaporation. Space blankets are common in first aid kits, ambulances, rescue packs, marathons, and outdoor survival kits.
read more about space blanket ...A space blanket is used to help reduce heat loss in emergencies, especially when someone is cold, wet, injured, or at risk of hypothermia. It can be wrapped around a person, used as part of a hypothermia wrap, or placed as a barrier against wind and moisture. The reflective surface can also make a person more visible to rescuers in daylight or under lights. It is a temporary aid, not a substitute for shelter, dry clothing, medical care, or active warming when those are needed.
A space blanket helps by reflecting some body heat back toward the person and reducing heat loss from air movement. Since many emergency blankets are water-resistant and wind-resistant, they can also help limit evaporative cooling from wet clothing or sweat. The blanket works best when it is used with insulation, dry layers, and protection from the ground. On its own, it does not create heat.
Wrap the blanket around the person with the reflective side facing inward when the goal is warmth. Cover the head and torso when possible, while keeping the airway clear and avoiding tight wrapping around the neck. If the ground is cold or wet, place insulation between the person and the ground because the blanket is very thin. In first aid situations, monitor breathing, alertness, skin color, and temperature while arranging proper care.
A space blanket can tear, trap moisture, and become less helpful if used alone in cold, wet, or windy conditions. It should not be placed over the face or used in a way that restricts breathing. In hot environments, wrapping someone tightly can trap body heat and worsen overheating. Severe shivering, confusion, drowsiness, slow breathing, or loss of consciousness can signal a medical emergency.
A space blanket helps reduce heat loss, but it does not produce heat. It works best with dry clothing, insulation, shelter, and proper emergency care when needed.
For warmth, the reflective side is commonly placed toward the body to reflect radiant heat back. Always follow the product instructions when available.
No. It can help reduce further heat loss, but hypothermia can require active warming and medical care. Call emergency services for severe symptoms.
Some can be reused if they are clean and not torn, but many basic emergency blankets are designed for single use. Replace any blanket that is ripped, contaminated, or no longer folds well for a kit.
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