North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch Review

First Impressions of North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch

The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch is a compact and lightweight solution for emergency warmth and shelter. Marketed by North American Rescue, a trusted name in tactical medical supplies, this blanket promises to retain body heat and provide protection from the elements. Its small pack size and low weight make it an appealing addition to any survival kit or first aid pack.

I was looking for a reliable, lightweight emergency blanket that wouldn’t take up too much space in my pack. I wanted something I could trust in unexpected situations, from getting caught in a sudden downpour while hiking to dealing with a hypothermic casualty. The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket seemed to strike a good balance between portability, functionality, and trusted brand recognition.

Unboxing (or, more accurately, unwrapping) the blanket, my first impression was just how incredibly small and light it was. The material felt thin but appeared durable enough for emergency use. It was clear from the start that the focus was on minimizing weight and bulk, which are critical considerations for any piece of survival gear.

Compared to other emergency blankets I’ve used, like the standard mylar blankets that crumple at the slightest provocation, the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket seemed a step up in terms of potential durability. While similar in size, the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket packed much smaller. I chose this blanket over cheaper alternatives mainly because of the North American Rescue name and the implied quality and reliability that comes with it.

My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic. I was impressed with the size and weight, but eager to test its actual thermal performance and durability in a real-world scenario. The promise of NASA-developed technology was intriguing, but the proof would be in the pudding.

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Real-World Testing: Putting North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket during a late-fall camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The overnight temperatures dipped into the low 40s, with a light drizzle throughout the night. I primarily used it as a supplemental layer inside my sleeping bag to see if it would boost warmth.

The blanket performed admirably in keeping out the moisture. It served as an effective vapor barrier. I definitely felt a noticeable difference in warmth inside my sleeping bag, likely due to the reflected body heat.

The Rescue Blanket was easy enough to deploy, unfolding to its full 56×96 inch size without any snags. There was a slight crinkling sound, characteristic of mylar-type materials, but it wasn’t overly distracting. The only issue I encountered was static cling. The material clung to itself, and to my clothing, making it a bit awkward to handle initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of sporadic use as a ground cloth, emergency shelter, and sleeping bag liner, the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket is showing some signs of wear but remains largely functional. The edges are starting to fray slightly, and there are a few small punctures from accidental contact with rocks. These small holes don’t seem to have significantly impacted its thermal performance or waterproofness.

Cleaning the blanket is relatively easy. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. More stubborn dirt requires a gentle scrub with mild soap and water.

Compared to the generic emergency blankets I’ve used in the past, the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket has definitely held up better. It has resisted tearing and shredding, and the reflective coating remains intact. While it’s not indestructible, it seems far more durable and reliable than cheaper alternatives.

Breaking Down the Features of North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch

Specifications

• The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket measures 56 x 96 inches, providing ample coverage for one person. This generous size allows for wrapping around the body or creating a makeshift shelter.
• It weighs under 2 ounces, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. This minimizes the burden on your pack, a crucial factor for backpacking or survival situations.
• The blanket is constructed from a metallized polyethylene material, reflecting radiant body heat. This material is designed to trap heat and keep the user warm.
• It is completely waterproof, offering protection from rain, snow, and moisture. This feature is essential for preventing hypothermia in wet conditions.
• The blanket utilizes technology originally designed by NASA to trap and reflect radiant body heat. This highlights the advanced engineering behind the product’s thermal capabilities.

These specifications are critical because they directly influence the blanket’s effectiveness in an emergency. The size provides adequate coverage, the light weight ensures portability, and the waterproof and heat-reflective properties are essential for survival in harsh environments.

Performance & Functionality

The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket performs its primary function – retaining body heat – exceptionally well. It significantly reduces heat loss compared to being exposed to the elements without any protection.

The blanket’s waterproof nature is another major strength. It provides a reliable barrier against rain and snow, preventing soaking and subsequent heat loss. A potential weakness is its vulnerability to punctures and tears. While more durable than standard mylar, it still requires careful handling.

The blanket largely meets my expectations based on its intended purpose. It’s not designed for heavy-duty use or extreme conditions, but it provides a valuable layer of protection in emergency situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket’s design prioritizes functionality and packability. The material is thin and lightweight, which contributes to its portability but also makes it feel somewhat fragile.

The blanket is very user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to deploy. Unfold and wrap or use as a shelter – simple as that.

Durability & Maintenance

While more durable than basic mylar blankets, the North American Rescue Rescue Blanket is not indestructible. With careful use, it should last through multiple emergency situations, but it’s not designed for repeated or rigorous use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which could damage the reflective coating.

Accessories and Customization Options

The North American Rescue Rescue Blanket comes with no specific accessories, as it is a self-contained item. There are no customization options available.

Because of its simple design, there are no specific branded accessories designed to directly integrate with the Rescue Blanket. However, its function can be complemented by other items such as paracord (for rigging as a shelter) and a small repair kit (for patching small tears). Its compact size also makes it universally compatible with any backpack or survival kit.

Pros and Cons of North American Rescue Rescue Blanket 56 X 96 Inch