Evacuate Casualties Reviews
Move a Casualty Using a Four-Man Litter Squad
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&pageText=When possible, casualties who cannot or should not walk are evacuated using a standard aluminum litter and a four-man litter squad. If military vehicles and litter materials are not available, watch the casualty closely for life-threatening conditions and provide first aid, as necessary, until medical aid is available. The procedures for moving a casualty using a four-man litter squad are to:& &label1=Prepare litter& &label2=Prepare casualty& &label3=Position four-man litter squad& &label4=Lift litter& &poptext1=Open the litter and lock the spreader bars (one at each end of the litter) into place. Use your foot to lock the bars into place to prevent possible injury to your hands.& &poptext2=Place the casualty on the litter
by using any of the following carries:
• One-man arms carry
• Two-man arms carry
• Two-man fore-and-aft carry
• Two-hand seat carry
• Four-hand seat carry
Note: If straps are available, secure the casualty to the litter.& &poptext3=Four-man litter squads should be designated with a number from one to four. The litter bearer is designated as number one and is the leader of the squad. The leader of the litter squad is normally the person with the most medical training. If a combat medic is not available, the combat lifesaver should act as a squad leader. The squad leader normally positions himself at the casualty’s right shoulder, which is the best position for monitoring the casualty’s condition.& &poptext4=The leader must ensure that all the bearers act in unison. This can be done by using preparatory commands and commands of execution. For example, the command to lift a litter is "Prepare to lift, LIFT." On the preparatory command "Prepare to lift," each bearer kneels beside his litter handle and grasps the handle. On the command "LIFT," all bearers rise together. The command to move forward is "Four-man carry, MOVE." The command to lower the litter is "Lower, LITTER."&