IS THE RUBBER GASKET IN PLACE? Without the gasket an air-tight seal at
this joint is impossible. Dangerous oxygen-lack will result above 24,000
feet. With a leak at this altitude serious mental and physical
inefficiency will develop, even though you may not pass out. Above
28,000 feet you will quickly become punch drunk, and the pass-out will
soon follow.
USE THE CLIP ON THE REGULATOR TUBING--It is there to remove tension on
this connection which could (1) cause serious mask leak by pulling the
mask down on the face, or (2) cause mask tubing to become disconnected.
In combat these things would fail to attract your attention. Without
warning you are first slap-happy and then drop unconscious.
THE RAPID DISCONNECT REQUIRES CONSTANT ATTENTION whether you are plugged
into a fixed station or into a walk-around bottle. A pull of at least 12
pounds should be required to separate the male and female connection of
the rapid disconnect. The security of the connection can be increased by
spreading the groups at the tip of the male connection. (See diagram,
pre-flight check, page 39).
CONNECTION OF HOSE TO REGULATOR IS NOT A SWIVEL JOINT--Above 24,000 feet
the collar must be turned up tightly to prevent a dangerous leak of air.
Make sure that the regulator hose is wired securely to the goose neck on
the regulator.