Training videos to prevent cold weather injuries

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Environmental Health
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Cold weather injuries (CWIs) pose significant risks during military operations in Arctic conditions.
• The Norwegian Armed Forces experience a high incidence of freezing cold injuries (FCIs), averaging 120-150 annually among young soldiers.
• Existing prevention strategies have not met the goal of zero FCIs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a communication package aimed at preventing CWIs, particularly FCIs, among military personnel.
• To supplement existing guidance on CWI prevention with practical recommendations and advice.
• To potentially reduce non-freezing cold injuries (NFCIs) and hypothermia through enhanced CWI prevention education.

Main Methods:

• An expert working group with medical, defense, and research representation was established in 2020.
• A communication package including training videos and an updated website was developed.
• The resources focus on practical advice for CWI and FCI prevention, risks, and symptom recognition.

Main Results:

• Development of training videos and an updated website focused on practical CWI and FCI prevention.
• Emphasis on risks, prevention, and symptoms of FCIs.
• The resources aim to supplement current cold weather injury prevention training.

Conclusions:

• The developed communication package, including training videos, offers a potential strategy to improve cold weather training and operations.
• Implementing these resources may lead to a reduction in FCIs and potentially other cold-related injuries like NFCIs and hypothermia.
• Continuous efforts in education and resource development are crucial for mitigating CWIs in military settings.