Setting Up a Casualty Collection Point (CCP) and Signaling a Medevac

1. Location Selection:
   • Choose a secure and defendable area close to the field of engagement but out of direct enemy fire.
   • Ensure there is space for triaging, treating, and moving casualties.
2. CCP Layout:
   • Divide the CCP into a triangular grid, with three primary zones:
     1. Zone 1: Incoming Casualties (Triage Area):
        • Patients are brought here for an initial assessment and stabilization.
        • Immediate action is taken to stop bleeding, restore circulation, and stabilize critical injuries.
     2. Zone 2: Recovery/Observation Area:
        • Patients who are stable but waiting for drug effects (e.g., morphine, saline) to take full effect are placed here.
        • These patients are rechecked to determine if they are fit to return to duty or need evacuation.
     3. Zone 3: Evacuation Area:
        • Patients who are combat ineffective (e.g., severe injuries) and require MEDEVAC are placed here.
        • This area also serves as the staging point for loading patients onto medevac transport.
3. Positioning Notes:
   • Place ambulatory patients (green status) at the entrance or perimeter to defend the CCP if needed.
   • Maintain an organized flow between zones to avoid congestion and confusion.
4. KIA Morgue:
   • Designate a separate location near the CCP for deceased personnel.
   • Document all KIA details for mission reporting (e.g., time, location, identification).
5. Platoon Medic Role:
   • The Platoon Medic or HQ Medic is in charge of the CCP.
   • They are the only ones equipped with the Med Box to ensure centralized care and supplies.

1. Daytime Signaling:
   • Use colored smoke to mark the CCP for the incoming helicopter.
   • Do not announce the smoke color over the radio until the helicopter is in the area. This prevents the enemy from mimicking your signal.
2. Nighttime Signaling:
   • Use a chem light or similar light source to signal the helicopter.
   • Green chem lights are often used but can be adjusted based on your team’s SOP.
   • Avoid using helmet strobe lights to prevent confusion with other signals.
3. Alternative Methods:
   • Flares:
     • Can be used if chem lights are unavailable. Use triangulated flare setups if visibility is low.
   • Flash Chem Lights:
     • For forested areas or dense environments, flash the chem light to confirm your location to the pilot.
4. Marking the Landing Zone:
   • Select a clear area with minimal obstructions.
   • If necessary, mark the perimeter of the landing zone with triangle-shaped flares or chem lights for added visibility.
5. Final Steps:
   • Confirm the landing zone is secure before signaling the helicopter.
   • Communicate clearly with the medevac crew to avoid misidentification.

Instructor Notes for Training

• CCP Setup:
  • Teach soldiers how to divide the CCP into three zones and the importance of keeping it organized.
  • Emphasize the role of the Platoon Medic in managing the CCP.
  • Demonstrate how to document KIA details.
• Medevac Signaling:
  • Practice using colored smoke, chem lights, and flares for both day and night operations.
  • Highlight the importance of confirming the medevac's location before deploying signals.
  • Stress the need for secure communication to prevent enemy interference.

Summary for Soldiers

1. CCP Setup:
   • Divide the CCP into three zones:
     1. Incoming Casualties (Triage).
     2. Recovery/Observation.
     3. Evacuation Area.
   • Place ambulatory patients in a defensive position if needed.
2. Signaling Medevac:
   • Use colored smoke (day) or chem lights/flares (night).
   • Announce smoke color only when the helicopter is nearby.
   • Confirm the landing zone is secure before signaling.
3. Key Reminders:
   • The CCP should be controlled and supplied by the Platoon Medic.
   • Always keep the area secure and organized.
   • Use reusable tools like chem lights where possible to reduce the load.