As an FST member, what key measure should be prioritized to protect personnel in cold conditions?

Prioritizing the conservation of body heat is essential for personnel working in cold conditions, as it directly addresses the risks associated with hypothermia and frostbite. Maintaining core body temperature is crucial because when the body cools down, physical and cognitive functions can decline dramatically, leading to impaired judgment and increased susceptibility to injuries.

While educating personnel on proper gear is important, and staying physically fit contributes to overall health and resilience against the cold, the immediate priority in cold conditions is to ensure that the body retains heat effectively. Creating shelter can also be vital, but without effective heat conservation, personnel may still suffer from cold-related injuries, even in a sheltered environment. Therefore, focusing on body heat conservation helps ensure that personnel can function effectively and safely in extremely cold conditions.