The Stokes litter will float upright at a ______ angle with the feet submerged.

The Stokes litter will float upright at a ______ angle with the feet submerged.

• A. 30 DEG
• B. 45 DEG
• C. 60 DEG
• D. 90 DEG

Answer: (B)

The Stokes litter is designed to float in water with the feet beneath the surface and the head kept higher for airway safety, reaching a stable equilibrium around 45 degrees to the water surface. This angle provides enough buoyancy to support the body upright while keeping the head and chest above water so the airway stays clear, yet allows the legs to remain submerged to help with balance and stability during handling. If it were much shallower than 45 degrees, the litter could ride too flat and make control difficult; if it were steeper (like 60 degrees or more), it would be less stable and harder to maneuver, and a fully vertical position (90 degrees) would compromise balance and exposure of the airway. So, 45 degrees is the angle that best balances airway protection, stability, and maneuverability.

The Stokes litter is designed to float in water with the feet beneath the surface and the head kept higher for airway safety, reaching a stable equilibrium around 45 degrees to the water surface. This angle provides enough buoyancy to support the body upright while keeping the head and chest above water so the airway stays clear, yet allows the legs to remain submerged to help with balance and stability during handling. If it were much shallower than 45 degrees, the litter could ride too flat and make control difficult; if it were steeper (like 60 degrees or more), it would be less stable and harder to maneuver, and a fully vertical position (90 degrees) would compromise balance and exposure of the airway. So, 45 degrees is the angle that best balances airway protection, stability, and maneuverability.