When soldiers are injured in combat situations, their survival depends on them being quickly evacuated from the battlefield to a place of safety where they can receive the specialist medical treatment they require. However, conventional stretchers can be cumbersome and difficult to carry, meaning recovery is delayed, and the risk to the casualty and the rescue party is exacerbated.

Lightweight portable stretchers provide an important tactical advantage, being more manoeuvrable and versatile without compromising on their strength. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using lightweight stretchers in military options.

1. They enable fast evacuation of the casualty

Lightweight stretchers facilitate quick and agile movement, reducing the time casualties and rescue teams are exposed to danger on the battlefield. Lightweight stretchers are made from advanced polymers and composite materials which allow them to weigh as little as 2-5kg. Despite the light weight, they can support loads in excess of 300kg. This means rescuers can move quickly without being weighed down by the stretcher's additional weight. A lightweight stretcher means a faster evacuation, buying the casualty precious time when their life is at risk.

2. They are easy to manoeuvre

Exceptional versatility is another key benefit of lightweight stretchers, which are easy to manoeuvre and portable, allowing them to be used across the most challenging terrains for which heavy, rigid stretchers may be unsuitable. From the rubble of urban combat zones to uneven mountain environments, lightweight stretchers adapt to the most hostile environments, making them a good choice for the British Army whose operations span many countries and continents.

3. They reduce fatigue for rescuers

When choosing a stretcher for use in military operations, it’s important to consider, not only the needs of the casualty, but those of the rescuers too. Conventional stretchers can be heavy and awkward to carry, sometimes weighing as much as 13kg before the weight of the casualty is added. Heavy loads sap rescuers’ energy and slow their movement, delaying vital treatment and worsening the life chances of the casualty. In contrast, lightweight stretchers allow rescue teams to cover longer distances and evacuate more quickly without becoming fatigued.

4. They help soldiers to conduct operations

Soldiers already carry a substantial amount of equipment, ammunition, and supplies into combat, so it is essential that, when a colleague is injured and needs to be evacuated from the battlefield, the stretcher doesn’t increase their burden. Stretchers must be on standby so they are available as soon as a soldier is injured, but mustn’t be so cumbersome that they interfere with operations. With less weight to bear, soldiers can focus their energy and attention on fighting rather than being weighed down by heavy recovery equipment.

Get in touch to find out more

For more information about our lightweight stretchers for the military or to request a free, no-obligation quotation, please call us on 01422 380097 or enquire here.