DISTRESS LIGHT (SDU-5/E)

The SDU-5/E light equips aircrew members and shipboard personnel with a high-intensity visual distress signal. The infrared filter and blue flash guard, contained in the SRU-31/P survival kit, are used in conjunction with the SDU-5/E light for signaling purposes in combat areas.

The SDU-5/E is commonly called a strobe light. It emits a high-intensity flashing light. This light is visible for great distances at night.

The SDU-5/E strobe light requires an inspection by the PR each time the aircrewman's flight gear is inspected (every 90 days). The aircrewman should perform a daily inspection to ensure that the light is operative. The calendar inspection consists of activating the light for 2 minutes. If the light does not operate at 50 flashes per minute (plus or minus 10 flashes) for the 2-minute duration, replace the battery. Repeat the procedure; if the light still does not operate, remove the light from service.

You must perform this test both in total darkness and also in a lighted area. Some lights operate in a lighted area but do not operate in TOTAL darkness.

You should store the batteries for the SDU-5/E light in a cold area (refrigerator) to prolong their service life and dependability.

To avoid causing possible night blindness to the crewman by accidental activation, install the SDU-5/E light in the SV-2 survival vest with the dome down and a protective cap installed over the switch.

INDIVIDUAL AIRCREWMAN'S SURVIVAL KIT (SRU-31/P)

The complete SRU-31/P kit consists of two parts; the first packet contains medical items that an aircrewman might need in an emergency situation. The local medical department has responsibility for the medical items that are contained in packet number one.

Packet number two contains general survival items. They are also intended to be used only in an emergency situation.

Packet one and packet two are contained in a carrying bag. Each packet can be replaced individually. Each item within a packet is packed in a transparent bag, which is hermetically sealed and retained in place by means of hook-and-pile tape. Additional adhesive-backed discs of hookand-pile tape are contained in the spare pocket of each container.

MEDICAL PACKET

The following items are contained in the medical packet of the SRU-31/P kit:

Soap. Nonperfumed, intended to avoid detection.

Instruction card. Provides general condensed instructions on use of survival items.

Antidiarrhea tablets. Dosage rates listed on instruction card. Expiration 4 years.

Pain killer (aspirin). Expiration date listed on foil packet. Replace as required. Dosage rate listed on instruction card.

Band-Aids.

Surgical tape. Ensure the package is intact and its sterile seal is not damaged.

Eye ointment. Expiration date of 5 years.

Water purification tablets. Manufacturer's date and applicable instructions listed on bottle.

Bandage (elastic). Ensure package is intact and sterile seal is not damaged.

Insect repellent.

GENERAL PACKET

The following items are contained in the General Packet of the SRU-3/P kit:

Metal matches. These may cause spontaneous ignition through oxidation. The match should remain in its original sealed container (foil wrapped) until ready for use. All metal matches in polyethylene and open packets must be removed from service and discarded in a fireproof container.

Mirror. This is the signaling mirror described at the beginning of this chapter.

Water bag. One-quart capacity. Belt loops provided for convenient carrying.

Signal panel. Silver/orange paulin, imprinted with the ground-to-air emergency code. It also may be used as a blanket for protection against unfavorable weather.

Mosquito headnet and mittens. Provided for protection against insect bites.

Chiclets. Multi-flavored gum, designed to relieve tension.

Multiflavored candy. Service shelf life is indefinite.

Flash guards. The flash guards are used in conjunction with the SDU-5/E light as a signal device during rescue operations. The flash guards are blue or red in color.

The packet also contains surgical tape, a water receptacle, wrist compass, razor knife, tweezers, and pins.

INSPECTION

You should inspect all the items in the SRU-31/P survival kit during periodic equipment inspections and replace them as necessary.