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5.   Sunburn is a problem during the early phases of a deployment, and topical
lotions containing a sun screen are essential. Lip ointment or chapstick is also
necessary. When showers are not available, it is important to clean body friction
points (joints) of accumulated dust (helmet baths, Wash'n Dry, Handy Wipes, Baby
Wipes etc.).

6.   Prevention of upper respiratory ailments depends on avoidance of
overcrowding, head-to-foot sleeping, adequate ventilation, good sanitation and
prompt treatment.

7. Consider all desert plants with a milky sap, other than a barrel cactus, as
poisonous if eaten. All red beans are dangerous.

8.   Do not use oleander (desert brush) for a fire as the smoke is poisonous.

9.   All small desert mammals are susceptible to rabies. Watch out for animals
that appear to have lost their fear of man.

10. Troops should avoid lying on hot sand (sitting is preferable). Sand is
30(F - 45(F hotter than air. When the surface temperature of sand is 150(F,  it is only
68(F eighteen inches below the surface. Therefore, shallow trenches, shaded by
shelter-halves, are adequate rest facilities in the open desert.

11.  Gray smoke (zinc chloride) and the smoke from burning tanks can produce
oxides of nitrogen, which, with a few breaths, can result in acute respiratory distress
and pulmonary edema.

12.  Burns are a common problem. Avoid touching metal objects or surfaces
exposed to direct sunlight as they can produce thermal burns. Gloves should be
used by all materiel handlers.

13.  Don't try to get a suntan or diet. Wear shirts with sleeves loose and pants
unbloused for maximal air circulation.

14.  Wear the complete uniform to protect from sunburn, dust and sand;
sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, goggles, and cravats can be simple, but effective,
preventive medicine measures.

15.  Canvas, ponchos, parachutes, and parachute suspension lines can be used
to provide protection, especially when sleeping or resting during the heat of the day.

16.  Sportsmen's metal foil survival blankets (NSN 7210-00-935-6667) are very
useful for staying warm at night, evacuating casualties, emergency markers etc.

17.  If possible, work should be performed early in the morning or early evening,
to avoid the heat of the day.


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