CAMP DENALI, Alaska – The Alaska National Guard, in partnership with U.S. Army Alaska and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), is hosting a safety day on JBER May 18 to promote safe practices as more people become active with summer recreation.

Various activities and displays will be at Hangar 4 on Bryant Army Airfield from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition, safety classes are being offered all week at several locations around JBER including CPR, first aid, hunter’s safety and ATV safety, all critical courses for military members living in the last frontier.

“Safety is always top priority,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Schell, Alaska Army National Guard, assistant chief of staff. “By providing these classes, displays, and activities, not only are we re-enforcing that belief, we are providing the education and encouragement to ensure our Soldiers, Airmen and their families are staying safe this summer.”

According to Schell, a critical boater’s safety class will be offered, allowing attendees to rent boats from the JBER Morale Welfare and Recreation office. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will also administer a vessel safety check for those who bring their boat to the event.

“It’s important to provide safety education so that our Soldiers, Airmen and their families can use that knowledge to keep themselves safe while enjoying the great outdoors.”

There will be displays and information on motorcycles, all-terrain-vehicles, and military and civilian vehicles with experts available to discuss safety. Plus, there will be several distinctive activities, encompassing safety with regards to environmental dangers as well.

“Some of the unique activities include the state’s Quake Cabin, which simulates a powerful earthquake, a fire-safety trailer and pedal carts where individuals wear ‘beer goggles’ and ‘drive’ a four wheeled pedal cart through an obstacle course to see how alcohol impairs their motor skills,” said Sgt. Craig Collins, Alaska National Guard occupational health and safety technician. “We really want to encourage Soldiers, Airmen and their families to participate in safety day.”

What: Alaska National Guard Safety Day

When: Friday, May 18, 2012, 10 a.m.

Where: Bryant Army Airfield on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson