Tips for winter survival

Commentary by Air Force Staff Sgt. Greg Avey
3rd Operations Support Squadron

1/28/2014 - JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska  -- Winter is here, and you never know when something bad could happen. Whether you're driving in your car, out backcountry skiing or enjoying a day of snowshoeing, you should always be prepared for the worst. One small mistake could turn your delightful day in Alaska into a survival situation in no time. Having the proper winter survival gear for your itinerary could be the difference between life and death in an arctic environment.

It doesn't matter where you plan to go or what activity you intend to do, you need to let someone know about your adventure and an estimated return date and time. Ensure you have the appropriate survival gear and check to make sure it works properly in case the conditions alter your plans.
If the weather is going to be inclement, make sure you have extra food and water in case you get stuck out there. If you're going to be driving, give yourself extra time to travel so you make it safely.

In the event a dangerous situation arises, stay calm and assess the situation. You essentially have five basic needs for survival: medical, signaling, personal protection, sustenance and travel. Prioritize what you need to do to maintain a 98.6 F body temperature and return safely.

Keep dry and warm. If you start getting cold, keep your blood circulating by moving your arms and legs or huddle together with others. Hydration will help prevent cold injuries. Continue to procure and drink water regardless of the situation.

If possible, let someone know your status via cell phone. Provide the number, condition (i.e. injuries) and location of all parties involved. If a cell phone is not an option at your location, make a signal that will help others locate you. If you're making a ground-to-air signal, ensure it contrasts with the surrounding environment and is large enough to be seen from the air.

Clothing is your first line of defense in any survival situation. Care for your clothing by keeping it dry and wearing it properly. In addition, you will need to build a shelter to protect yourself from the elements and survive the cold Alaska nights. Pay particular attention to all battery operated devices. Cold temperatures will drain batteries and the device could potentially fail when you need it most. To keep devices warm, keep them inside the layers of your clothing.

Food and water are critical when it comes to survival. You can only survive three days without water and three weeks without food. Water is very easy to get in Alaska; turning a puddle of what appears to be chunky chocolate milk into potable water is another story. Snow is a viable source of water that doesn't require any purification, but never simply eat it. If you eat snow, you will dehydrate yourself even further. You can use body heat or fire to turn snow into water.

Never travel away from a location where you are lost or stranded. If you developed a good trip plan and communicated that plan to someone, rescue personnel will find you if you don't return as expected.

It's crucial to have a winter survival kit tailored for each adventure. There are many websites you can go to for information on winter car kits, home kits and basic survival. I recommend having the following items in your car kit as a minimum: snow shovel, water, snacks, headlamp, extra batteries, water-proof matches, candles, wool socks, emergency sleeping bag, whistle, warm gloves, stocking cap, knife, 550 cord, large trash bags, extra set of thermals, first aid kit, jumper cables, tow strap and emergency flares.

Be safe out there on your next outing. For more information, go to dps.alaska.gov/PIO/docs/WildernessTripPlan.pdf.