What makes the NAR Survival Wrap different from a standard emergency blanket?
The NAR Survival Wrap uses a dual-layer construction combining metalized mylar with a tear-resistant laminated polyethylene shell, making it significantly more durable than single-layer foil emergency blankets. It reflects up to 90% of radiant body heat and is both wind- and waterproof, providing better thermal retention in austere outdoor and tactical environments.
How compact is the NAR Survival Wrap when packed?
When folded, the NAR Survival Wrap measures just 5 inches × 3.75 inches and weighs only 3.7 oz, making it small enough to fit in a cargo pocket or a standard IFAK. Despite its compact footprint, it unfolds to a full 60 × 96 inches for complete body coverage.
Is the NAR Survival Wrap suitable for military and tactical use?
Yes. The Olive Drab colorway is designed specifically for tactical operations where concealment is required. North American Rescue manufactures the wrap for military use, and its compact, lightweight design makes it appropriate for individual soldier kits, patrol medic bags, and vehicle-mounted trauma supplies.
Can the NAR Survival Wrap be used to treat hypothermia in TCCC protocols?
The Survival Wrap is a first-line hypothermia prevention tool recommended for use at the point of injury in TCCC scenarios. Hypothermia prevention is a critical step in preventing the lethal triad of acidosis, hypothermia, and coagulopathy. The wrap should be applied after hemorrhage control to minimize core temperature loss while awaiting evacuation.
What colors does the NAR Survival Wrap come in, and what are the use cases for each?
The NAR Survival Wrap is available in two colorways: reversible Orange/Silver (SKU MEDTAC0013) and Olive Drab (SKU MEDTAC0014). The Orange/Silver version is ideal for civilian EMS, SAR, and wilderness use — the orange exterior increases casualty visibility while the silver interior maximizes heat reflection. The Olive Drab version is preferred for tactical and military operations requiring visual concealment.
What is the difference between the orange and OD green versions?
Orange/Silver (ZZ-0834-c): 60 × 96 in., 3.7 oz — the orange side is high-visibility for emergency signaling, SAR operations, and civilian emergency kits. OD Green/Silver (ZZ-1390): 56 × 96 in., 3.2 oz — lower-visibility tactical coloring for military environments where orange would compromise position. Both are silver on the heat-reflective side. Choose based on operational context.
Which side faces the patient?
Silver side faces inward toward the patient — it reflects body heat back. The colored side (orange or OD green) faces outward. Wrapping it backwards reduces effectiveness significantly: silver facing out reflects environmental radiation inward in warm conditions, not body heat inward in cold conditions.
Is this CoTCCC-recommended for trauma hypothermia?
The Emergency Survival Wrap is not specifically on the CoTCCC recommended device list for trauma hypothermia management — that designation belongs to the HPMK. The Survival Wrap is an effective passive radiant device appropriate for supplement and lower-acuity use. For CoTCCC-compliant primary trauma hypothermia management, specify the HPMK.
Can I use this in the rain?
The laminated polyethylene exterior is wind and waterproof on the surface. However, it does not provide the vapor-barrier function of the HPMK's inner vacuum bag. For wet-environment trauma patient packaging, the HPMK provides better moisture protection. The Survival Wrap is most effective in dry-cold and wind-chill environments.
What is the packaged size — will this fit in an IFAK side pocket?
The Orange/Silver version (ZZ-0834-c) packs to 5 in. × 3.75 in. at 3.7 oz. The OD Green version (ZZ-1390) is similarly compact. Both fit in a standard IFAK side pocket or cargo pocket — no folding jig required.
