Winter Safety Travel Tips

Winter is in full swing and this means below zero temperatures and snow storms are upon us creating hazardous traveling conditions. Before you venture out this winter, make sure that you dress and prepare appropriately so you are ready to meet any weather conditions you may run into. Here are some safety guidelines that everyone should review in case of an emergency:

  • Be prepared. If traveling by snow machine, make sure that it is in good condition with enough fuel to get you where you need to go and back.
  • Tell a friend. Tell someone where you are going, what route you plan to take, and when you plan to return.
  • Check the weather forecast. You must be prepared for any extreme weather that comes your way.
  • Bring a friend if traveling long distances. Traveling is safer when done in pairs. The most dangerous situations occur when a person is injured and alone. If you must travel alone, tell someone. If traveling long distances, be sure to check in at nearby communities and villages.
  • Avoid traveling across bodies of water when uncertain of ice thickness or water currents. Temperature, snow cover, currents, and springs can affect the thickness and relative safety of ice. Ice is seldom the same thickness over a single body of water; it can be 2 ft. thick in one place and 1 in. thick a few yards away. Check the ice at least every 150 ft. Drowning is the leading cause of snow machine deaths in Alaska.
  • Slow down. Speed is a contributing factor in nearly all fatal snow machine accidents. Drivers should proceed at a pace that will allow ample reaction time for any situation. Drive at moderate speeds, and drive defensively, especially after sunset.
  • Dress for the weather. Wearing the correct coat is necessary when traveling. It is best to wear a warm, waterproof coat. Dress in layers – be sure to include a base layer, which includes long underwear; a middle layer, which could be a fleece or puffy jacket; and an outer layer, which could be another jacket. Don’t forget hat, gloves, and an extra pair of socks.
  • Pack for Survival by bringing:
      • A knife, axe, or saw
      • A flashlight, flares, or a strobe
      • Waterproof matches
      • High-Energy food or bars
      • Electrical/Duct Tape
      • An extra key
      • Radio/Cell Phone
      • GPS
      • Thermal Blanket
      • First-Aid Kit
  • Don’t drink and drive! Drinking impairs your judgement and increases the risk of getting into an accident and getting lost.