Check The Ice

Check the ice when choosing a location for Alaska Ice fishing. Ice does not freeze uniformly. One area may be a foot thick and less than an inch or two only a few feet away. Test the ice with an ice chisel, auger, or cordless drill with a long drill bit. Also, if possible, visit a local resort or bait shop close to your fishing destination and ask about ice conditions in that area.

Frostbite And Hypothermia

Extreme cold can cause significant injury and is an inherent danger while Alaska Ice fishing. Frostbite freezes skin and tissues (fingers, toes, nose, ears), causing numbness, discoloration, and hardness. Hypothermia is when your entire body core temperature drops below 95°F. This leads to shivering, confusion, and lethargy. Both frostbite and hypothermia are serious cold-related emergencies requiring immediate medical attention.

Keys To Avoiding Frostbite And Hypothermia While Alaska Ice Fishing

• Dress in Layers: Wear at least three layers: a moisture-wicking base layer (synthetic/wool), an insulating middle layer (fleece/down), and a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Layers should be loose, as tight clothing restricts circulation, increasing frostbite risk.
• Protect Extremities: Cover all exposed skin while Alaska ice fishing. Wear mittens (warmer than gloves), a hat, scarf, and face mask to protect ears, nose, and chin.
• Stay Dry: Wet clothing removes body heat rapidly. Replace wet garments immediately, especially socks and gloves.
• Limit Exposure & Monitor Wind Chill: Check weather forecasts for wind chill, which causes faster heat loss. Avoid long unprotected periods in extreme cold.
• Stay Active & Hydrated: Keep blood flowing by moving, while avoiding overexertion. Drink warm, sweet, or non-alcoholic fluids to stay hydrated and maintain energy.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Alcohol causes the body to lose heat faster, while caffeine constricts blood vessels, increasing the risk of cold injuries.

Further safeguard against frostbite and hypothermia, by immediately seeking shelter and dry, warm clothing if you get wet or feel cold while Alaska ice fishing. Always bring a change of dry clothes along with hand and foot warmers in a waterproof bag.

Understanding The Ice In Alaska Ice Fishing

Freshly frozen ice is stronger than old ice. Ice partially thaws and wears away over time, making it less sound. Four inches of clear, newly formed ice, may support one person on foot while older, partially thawed ice as thick as a foot, may not.

Snow acts as an insulator and slows down the freezing process of ice. Ice that has a lot of snow on it has extra weight that needs to be considered. Freshly packed snow on top of ice will make ice less sturdy for additional weight.

Never Assume When Alaska Ice Fishing

Some people make the mistake of assuming ice is safe because it appears thick, but location also plays a part in strength. Ice formed over water currents or flowing rapids is dangerous. If you are near streams, bridges and culverts, prepare an exit strategy before setting up your fishing spot. It would be better to move to a location where water isn’t flowing because the under current wears on ice. When ice is formed near the shore, it can be weaker than ice farther out on the water.

Different animals affect the safety of ice as well, including schools of fish or flocks of birds. Too many fish moving under the ice brings warm water from the bottom of the lake or river and may cause holes in the ice to open up.

Avoid dangerous situations – Alaska ice fishing is an enjoyable experience for the whole family with proper planning.

Johnson Law encourages Alaskans to prioritize safety by planning, preparing, and monitoring all winter ice activities to help create a safer 2026. This includes following official guidelines and exercising caution while Alaska Ice fishing, as no ice is ever 100% safe.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Information Source: American Red Cross: How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia and Frostbite

Image created using Canva Magic Media- Prompt: Alaska Ice Fishing in a winter tent

Avoid Drinking On The Water

When you’re boating, the number-one rule should be never drink and drive. Drinking and driving on the water poses the same threats as drinking and driving on land. According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2024 report, alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating incidents accounting for 20% of boating accident deaths. Bottom Line: Drinking and driving threatens Alaska boating safety for everyone.

Children And Alaska Boating Safety

Many children are hurt on boats because they are unfamiliar with Alaska boating safety and dangerous boating behaviors. Teach children the basics of Alaska boating safety:

• Always wear a proper fitting life jacket;
• Stay seated while the boat is moving;
• Running on the boat is prohibited; and
• Never lean over the side of the boat

Make Alaska boating safety a priority in your family. Increase swimming safety skills by enrolling children in swimming lessons at an early age. Teach children the differences between pool swimming and open water swimming. Practice floating in a properly fitted life jacket before going into open water.

Finally, never overload the boat; having too many people on board may cause the boat to capsize or fill with water.

Safety Equipment

Everyone on board should have a properly fitted life jacket. Although wearing life jackets when the boat is stationary is not required, wearing life jackets while docking is best practice for Alaska boating safety. While 76% of fatal boating incident victims drowned, 87% of the fatalities were not wearing a Personal Floatation Device.

Even when all participants follow Alaska safe boating practices, accidents may still happen. In the case of an emergency, you need to know how to get help. Have all required safety equipment on board, and remember to bring fresh water, food and plenty of sunscreen when planning a day on the water. If the weather gets rough, return to the docks or port; even on landlocked lakes, waves can capsize small boats.

Know Your Rights After A Boating Accident

Those injured in a boating accident due to another person’s negligence, may have a claim for damages. A personal injury attorney can help you with this kind of claim. As with every serious injury case, obtaining fair compensation after a boating accident relies on your attorney’s ability to identify insurance coverage to pay for your losses. Johnson Law finds insurance coverage for clients and fights for fair compensation from the insurance companies.

 Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska boating accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: National Association of State Boating Law Administrators: Alaska; FindLaw: Top 10 Tips to Prevent Boating Accidents, Injuries

Image Source: Alaska Explored

The best way to protect skin from the dangers of UV light is to monitor sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen regularly. Smart Alaskans Use Sunscreen. However, it can be difficult however to understand what kind of sunblock to use.

How Sunscreen Works

Sunscreen works by filtering or absorbing the suns UV rays using inorganic or organic ingredients. Organic ingredients absorb and convert the UV rays, releasing the energy as small amounts of heat. Inorganic ingredients absorb, reflect, or scatter UV rays by forming a physical barrier on the skin. Therefore, a combination of the two types of ingredients serve the best protection.

Types Of Sunscreen

There are different types of sunscreen to use for different parts of the body, such as lotions, creams, sprays, gels and sticks. The most commonly used sunscreen is lotion. Lotions are best used to cover a large area of skin and are good when a lot of areas will be exposed to the sun. Creams are greasier than lotions and are good for dry skin types. Spray sunscreen is easy to apply to large area but may not provide full coverage if not applied correctly. When using a spray sunscreen, ensure that you spray a generous and even coat. Gel lotions are good for areas containing hair, such as the scalp or chest. Finally, sunscreen sticks are good for the face, especially around the eye area. Each person may prefer or need a different type of sunscreen depending on skin type and needs.

Benefits of Water Resistant Sun Protection

Water resistant sunscreen is useful, especially for children. The terms “water resistant” or “waterproof” means the sunscreen is resistant to water for 40-80 minutes. Check the label to determine the time for water resistance. When outside in the water, it is important to reapply sunscreen to ensure skin remains protected.

Understanding Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

Sun protection factor (SPF) is the measurement of how well a particular sunscreen protects against UVB rays. The measurement is determined by how long it takes for skin to sunburn when treated with sunscreen vs. no sunscreen. Expert recommendation is to use at least SPF 30 for sunscreen to protect skin. Sunscreen above SPF 50 provides additional protection – but the increase in protection is small. Sunscreen not properly applied or washed off does not provide the full SPF coverage, making it important to apply correctly and regularly.

Smart Alaskans Use Sunscreen Wisely

Combining sunscreen with products such as insect repellent reduces sunscreen benefits. Insect repellent requires fewer applications than sunscreen, thus does not need to be applied as often. Other products with sunscreen, such as moisturizer or makeup, may make you feel like you are protecting skin against the sun rays. However, these kind of products require repeated applications and often have lower SPF ratings. The added protection may give you peace of mind, but it is important to still use sunscreen on days that your sun exposure is increased. Apply sunscreen generously all over the skin, even on cloudy days. Many people in Alaska do not think the sun is dangerous but sun exposure is a concern, especially on long Alaskan Summer days. Finally, check expiration dates on sunscreen and throw out any expired sunscreen.

Skin cancer is serious, children exposed to the sun without protection have a greater risk of developing skin cancer later in life. It is important to protect yourself and your family from the risks of skin cancer.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: American Cancer Society; Mayo Clinic Q and A: Sunscreen Best Practices

Image Source:  Pixabay

Be Wary of Natural Hazards

The extended sunlight during summer in Alaska has pros and cons. It’s important to always use sun protection – including days that don’t seem to be hot enough to cause a sunburn. Whether utilizing UV blocking clothing, hats, or sun screen, avoid over-exposure when enjoying the outdoors. Sun burns can cause serious harm and over exposure to sun can lead to serious health concerns. Not only is UV protection important, so is staying hydrated. Being in the sun for long periods can increase the risk of dehydration and heat stroke.

It’s important to be aware of weather conditions that may impact water levels of rivers and lakes impeding Alaska Summer Water Safety. Also be aware of the strength and speed of currents, water temperature, and natural hazards such as rocks and fallen trees. In Alaska, we must be mindful of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to come across moose or bears along rivers and near lakes during the summertime, even in popular, crowded fishing or recreational areas.

Always Use A Personal Flotation Device

Many programs to support Alaska Summer Water Safety. Alaska residents are familiar with the phrase “kids don’t float” written across signs near public lakes and river access areas. The sign is often accompanied by life jackets in various sizes available for public use. It’s crucial for everyone, children and adults alike, to wear a life jacket or personal flotation device when near a large body of water. Especially in cold, deep or quick moving water, a personal flotation device can save a life in an emergency.

Children And Alaska Summer Water Safety

It’s a common misconception that a child in danger will make a loud disturbance; kick, scream, shout for help, or create loud splashes. Unfortunately, this is often not the case in water related injuries and deaths. Drowning is often silent. It’s absolutely vital for children to remain under constant, undistracted, adult supervision when in or near a body of water.

Even when seemingly shallow, water can pose a serious risk to children. Accidents and emergencies can happen quickly, and quietly, which makes it crucial to closely supervise children near water.

Taking swimming lessons and basic water safety courses can prepare people of any age, even infants, to be more confident and skilled in the water. Children as young as 6 months old are able to learn basic life saving techniques, such as floating or breathing skills, to improve their water safety.

Part Three of a three-part Alaska Summer Safety series. See: Part One – Alaska Summer Driving Safety; and Part Two – Alaska Summer Biking Safety

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Info Source: Stop Drowning Now

Image generated with ChatGPT – Prompt: Family Enjoying Alaska Summer Boating Safely

Outdoor Winter – To and From Your Home or Workplace

Always use handrails and other secure objects to brace yourself when stepping onto a potentially slippery surface. Use ice melt to keep the walkway surrounding your home clear of ice. A pair of ice cleats that attach to your footwear can be a huge help to preventing a slip and fall injury. Ice and traction cleats are removable, but having a spare pair of shoes to walk through buildings is helpful for those who don’t want to put cleats on and off their boots or shoes.

Prepare For Slippery Conditions

When outdoor winter walking through neighborhoods or along public trails, it’s a good idea to bring a walking stick or trekking poles. Increasing your traction and overall stability during the winter months is very important to avoid slipping and falling.

Walk more slowly than usual and take shorter steps to avoid your feet slipping on ice. Never run across an icy, wet, or snowy area. Be cautious and step carefully across potentially slippery places.

Keep your hands out of your pockets in case you do slip and fall. Having your hands at your sides increases your chances of breaking your fall or catching yourself and softening your impact. Wear gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm.

Hiking the Winter Outdoors

Outdoor Winter Walking in Alaska can be very rewarding, even in the cold. Hiking during Alaska’s winter months is not unusual. Many residents enjoy the outdoors year-round. When hiking in cold weather, it’s important to keep in mind the various risks and potential hazards.

Make a plan and be prepared for potential weather changes and adjustments to your trip. Always tell someone where you’re going, the route you intend to take, and when you intend to return. In the event of an injury or an accident, it’s important for someone to know where you’ll be so help can find you if needed.

If this is your first outdoor winter walking hike during winter, don’t push your limits. Try a test hike that won’t be particularly difficult to complete. This gives you the opportunity to gauge how you respond to the winter weather and to test your hiking equipment, such as a new GPS device or new boots.

Prepare Before Hiking

Remember to wear warm layers of clothing under an outer jacket to protect from the elements, such as wind or snow. Keep your feet warm and dry with appropriate socks and footwear. Always bring spare gloves, a hat, and socks in case your first set get wet. Pack an emergency kit with a space blanket, and extra food and water, in the event you’re outdoors longer than anticipated.

Stay safe while winter outdoor walking and enjoying all Alaska has to offer. Watch for Alaskan wildlife such as moose and caribou. Always carry bear spray when hiking during all months, regardless of whether bears are believed to be hibernating. Wildlife can be unpredictable, much like the weather in Alaska. Natural hazards, such as avalanches or mudslides, are also important to be aware of. Before hiking in the hills or mountains it’s a good idea to review local weather forecasts and bulletins detailing current risks in that area.

Steps To Take Following A Winter Outdoors Slip And Fall Injury

Slipping and falling on ice can lead to serious injuries. Head injuries, herniated disks, and fractured bones are common injuries arising from slip and fall accidents. If you fall this winter, don’t delay seeing your primary care physician. The sooner you’re able to see a doctor, the sooner you’ll be able to get the appropriate treatment to heal your injuries.

If you’re able to, take pictures of the area you fell and write down exactly what happened leading to your fall. If possible, ask all witnesses to write a statement and leave contact information. Ask the surrounding homes or businesses if they have outdoor cameras that may have recorded your fall.

This piece on Outdoor Winter Walking Safety is the second of a nine-part winter safety series. See our safety tips for Keeping Kids Safe and Warm; Home Heating Safety; Cold Weather Vehicle Safety; Driving in Ice and Snow; Snowmachine Safety; Removing Ice and Snow Safely; and Surviving Extreme Cold.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Secondary Sources: OSHA; Alpine Fit

Image Source: Alpine Fit