The Survival Vacuum Mattress was developed in collaboration with the Mountain Rescue Council (England and Wales) (MRC) and is produced by Snowsled on behalf of Survival and Protection Systems Ltd. It is used by all the teams in England and Wales, most of the teams in Ireland and many in Scotland.

The need for proper spinal support and management of trauma casualties is well established. It is now recommended that if casualties are to remain on a stretcher for longer than 20 minutes, they should first be placed in a vacuum mattress. The mattress contours to the casualties shape, which adds significantly to the qualiity of care, reduces risk of further injury, helps to eliminate the risk of pressure sores and facilitates faster recovery.

Advantages of using a vacuum mattress

• Optimum spinal support. No restriction on casualty weight. Patients feel comfortable and well supported.
• Circulation not compromised and speed of recovery is helped .
• X-ray transmissible.
• Good insulation from the surroundings.
• Not affected by extremes of temperature. Cleaning is easy.
• It can be used in whatever is the most helpful position for the casualty, e.g., it can be used for patients in a semi-reclined position.

Major benefits of the Survival Vacuum Mattress

In fulfilling all of the above advantages, it,

• is lightweight, yet very strongly constructed for demanding environments
• is easy to use and to learn techniques
• is fast to put into action
• is very reliable in use
• comes complete in sac with some extra room for personal gear

Specification

Flat size: 1 m X 2 m (1.2 m at shoulders)
Sac: size 90 cms X 50 cms X 30 cms
Sac flap has full length mesh pocket
Weight: 8.0 Kgs in sac with pump
High density beads
Tough welded PU covered nylon fabric
enclosed by 1000 denier Cordura nylon cover
5 easily adjusted straps
5 lifting handles on each side
Transparent pocket for medical notes

Specific end users

All rescue organisations, particularly those who operate in hostile and difficult environment

Added 11-3-07 CGS