Chapter 3




Climbing rope, one per climbing team.
Climbing rack, one per climbing team.

SQUAD OR TEAM SAFETY PACK
3-71. When a squad-sized element leaves the bivouac site, squad safety gear should be carried in addition
to individual day packs. This can either be loaded into one rucksack or cross-loaded among the squad
members. In the event of an injury, casualty evacuation, or unplanned bivouac, these items may make the
difference between success and failure of the mission.

Sleeping bag.

Sleeping mat.

Squad stove.

Fuel bottle.

TEN ESSENTIALS
3-72. Regardless of what equipment is carried, the individual military mountaineer should always carry ten
essentials when moving through the mountains:

Map
3-73. Compass, altimeter, and or GPS.

Sunglasses and Sunscreen
3-74. In alpine or snow-covered sub-alpine terrain, sunglasses are a vital piece of equipment for preventing
snow blindness. They should filter 95 to 100 percent of ultraviolet light. Side shields, which minimize the
light entering from the side, should permit ventilation to help prevent lens fogging. At least one extra pair
of sunglasses should be carried by each independent climbing team.
3-75. Sunscreens should have an SPF factor of 15 or higher. For lip protection, a total UV blocking lip
balm that resists sweating, washing, and licking is best. This lip protection should be carried in the chest
pocket or around the neck to allow frequent reapplication.

Extra Food
3-76. One day’s worth extra of food should be carried in case of delay caused by bad weather, injury, or
navigational error.

Extra Clothing
3-77. The clothing used during the active part of a climb, and considered to be the basic climbing outfit,
includes socks, boots, underwear, pants, blouse, sweater or fleece jacket, hat, gloves or mittens, and foul
weather gear such as waterproof, breathable outerwear or a waterproof rain suit. Extra clothing includes
additional layers needed to make it through the long, inactive hours of an unplanned bivouac. Keep in mind
the season when selecting this gear.

Extra underwear to switch out with sweat-soaked underwear.

Extra hats or balaclavas.

Extra pair of heavy socks.

Extra pair of insulated mittens or gloves.

Extra insulation for the upper body and the legs (winter or severe mountain conditions).
3-78. To back up foul weather gear, bring a poncho or extra-large plastic trash bag. A reflective emergency
space blanket can be used for hypothermia first aid and emergency shelter. Insulated foam pads prevent
heat loss while sitting or lying on snow. Finally, a bivouac sack can help by protecting insulating layers
from the weather, cutting the wind, and trapping essential body heat.

3-30

TC 3-97.61

26 July 2012