The stokes litter will float upright at a ____________ angle with the feet submerged.

The stokes litter is designed for both patient safety and effective handling during rescue operations. When referencing the angle at which the stokes litter will float upright with its feet submerged, the 45-degree angle is optimal because it ensures the litter remains stable in the water while allowing for sufficient support of the patient.

At a 45-degree angle, the submerged end helps to counterbalance the patient’s weight and keeps the litter from tipping over, which is critical in maintaining the safety and comfort of the individual being rescued. This positioning allows for easier maneuverability by the crew and reduces the risk of further injury to the patient.

The other options represent angles that either do not provide the necessary balance for flotation or may cause the litter to become unstable. Therefore, the selection of a 45-degree angle reflects an understanding of both the design function of the stokes litter and the best practices in water rescue scenarios.