Going camping in the cold? Yes, please

The Outdoor Adventure Program is hosting several free cold-weather safety classes at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

The class is aimed at preparing JBER service members and their families for exploring Alaska safely during the winter season.

“Up here in Alaska, it’s very remote and very wet and cold,” said Karl Lavtar, 673d Force Support Squadron OAP director. “We get a lot of Soldiers and Airmen from the Lower 48 and warmer states, and they can be clueless about being safe in this environment.”

One of the most important topics covered during the class is cold-weather related injuries, such as frostbite and hypothermia, and how to prevent them.

“Layering and wearing the proper clothes can be very effective in making sure you don’t have a miserable time as well as preventing frostbite or hypothermia,” Lavtar said. “During the class we’ll talk about what clothing materials are best and making sure it’s not only warm but waterproof.”

The next step is proper nutrition and hydration.

“What to bring and what not to bring is very important,” Lavtar said. “We tell people to stay away from alcohol and coffee since they can be diuretics.”

The class also covers basic items you should always have with you in case of an emergency situation, how to build a fire in snowy conditions, and how you can contact others.

The OAP is also offering an introduction to winter camping class.

“In the intro to winter camping class we cover everything from the cold weather safety class, as well as some basics you should know before camping in the winter,” Lavtar said. “We cover different shelters available, setting up camp in winter conditions, different modes of travel or transportation, and how to make sure lake ice is safe to walk on.”

Whether you’re going out for the day or going on a long trip, having everything planned is extremely important, said Lavtar.

“You should always tell someone where you will be going and how long you’re going to be so they can find you in an emergency situation.” Lavtar said. “The important factor here is for people to get outdoors during the winter but also be safe doing it.”

The next cold weather safety class will be Dec. 12, and the next introduction to winter camping class is Nov. 29; call the OAP at 552-4599 to register.

The program can also assist by providing custom classes for larger units with advance notice.