Cold Weather Outdoors Class

November 16th, 1pm
RSVP for Address

Course Overview

This class introduces the principles of surviving, moving, and thriving in cold weather environments.  Participants will learn the physiological effects of cold, how to prevent cold weather injuries, and how to live and work efficiently in subfreezing conditions. The course blends theory and practical exercises to develop confidence, safety awareness, and adaptability in winter conditions.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the effects of cold on the body and recognize signs of hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot.

• Employ the COLD principle (Clean, Overheating, Layers, Dry) for clothing management.

• Construct cold-weather shelters and select safe bivouac sites.

• Build and maintain fires and stoves safely under adverse conditions.

• Identify and utilize cold weather rations and hydration strategies.

• Apply techniques for movement, navigation, and work discipline in snow and ice environments.

• Demonstrate team coordination and risk management when exposed to low temperatures.

Core Topics

1. Environmental Effects and Physiology

   • Heat loss mechanisms: conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation.

   • Cold-related injuries and prevention.

   • Energy balance and hydration in the cold.

2. Clothing and Equipment Management

   • Layering systems and moisture control.

   • Footgear, gloves, and head protection.

   • Equipment care and cold-weather modifications.

3. Shelter and Campcraft

   • Site selection, wind protection, and snow utilization.

   • Building improvised shelters and insulation techniques.

   • Tent and stove operation; ventilation and carbon monoxide prevention.

4. Firecraft and Sanitation

   • Fire-starting methods in snow and wind.

   • Maintaining hygiene and sanitation in subzero conditions.

   • Safe waste disposal and food handling.

5. Cold Weather Movement

   • Route selection, snowshoe/ski techniques, and pacing.

   • Work-rest cycles and maintaining body heat during exertion.

   • Load management and safety in group travel.

6. Survival and Emergency Actions

   • Lost-person procedures and signaling.

   • Improvised insulation and heat sources.

   • Evacuation and first aid for cold injuries.

Meet Your Instructor

Brian Kresge is a rabbinical student with the Pluralistic Rabbinical Seminary, and president of Maine’s oldest synagogue, Congregation Beth Israel in Bangor.  He is also a former arctic paratrooper, having graduated from several courses at the Northern Warfare Training Center in Alaska, and retired in 2024 from the Maine Army National Guard after serving over 30 years. Brian lives with his wife, Leah, and their youngest daughter, Nezzie, in Winterport, Maine.

Last modified: October 12, 2025