In addition, Alaska has one of the longest winter seasons in the United States. Throughout Interior Alaska, snow can stick around from October through April. Sledding is great fun. At the same time, it can also be dangerous for both skilled and amateur participants. The key is sledding safety to avoid injuries.

Sledding Injuries

Sledding can lead to injuries when participants fall off sleds or are hit by another person’s sled. It is common to get bruises, cuts or broken bones. When sledding, hold onto handles tightly and do not let go until your sled comes to a stop. Do not take on hills or slides too big for your size and experience. Parents should monitor which hills and slides children use to ensure they are sledding safely.

Check Your Surroundings To Increase Sledding Safety

When sledding, increase safety by checking the area for rocks, buried tree limbs or other objects that may cause an injury to occur. Look around to make sure that you know where fences, light poles and trees are located to avoid colliding into stationary objects.

Before sledding down a hill or slide, check the path to make sure you will not hit anyone standing or walking nearby. If you are walking in a sledding area, sledding safety is your responsibility too. Stay alert and out of the sled paths. Watch small children and do not allow them to run into sled paths.

Dress Accordingly

Dressing warmly is necessary and can extend your sledding time as well as increasing safety. Dress in layers. Gloves, hats and jackets will ensure that you do not get too cold. Wear waterproof gear when possible to ensure you do not get too cold after being outside for an extended period. Helmets are a good idea for sledding and protect from head injuries in case of collisions. Goggles can also be handy to avoid snow or other items flying into eyes and causing vision problems.

Sledding Safety Techniques

It is best to go down a hill or slide with your feet first. Sliding downhill on your stomach makes it difficult to stop. You can stop sleds by using your feet but never stop on an ice slide as your legs can catch the slide, causing injuries.

Ensure you and your children do not misuse sleds. Use sleds designed for one person with only one rider at a time. Do not pull sleds at high speeds with bicycles, snow machines, ATVs, or other vehicles. Throw away broken sleds and replace them instead of continuing to use them.

Sledding is fun for people of all ages but can be dangerous when not taken seriously. Practice safety when sledding and never assume that others are looking out for your safety.

If you or a family member is injured while sledding due to another person’s negligence, you may need to hold that person responsible. Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for 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

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: People enjoying sledding in Alaska

Heating Oil

Heating a home with oil is common in many Alaskan homes. There is normally a tank outside of the home or in the basement filled with heating oil regularly. The oil pumps into a chamber where the oil is heats in a circulator or heat exchanger. The heat from the chamber becomes in contact with air or water. The water or air distributes through the house by pipes to baseboards, radiator, or through ducts in the house. Increase home heating safety with regular heating oil tank, fuel lines, and furnace inspections at least once a year – especially before winter. In cold places throughout Alaska, systems run constantly, and small leaks or corrosion can quickly become major problems.

Pellet Stoves

These stoves work like wood stoves except they are fueled by pellets. Pellet fuel sources include sawdust, paper, and bark. Pellet stoves burn very hot and clean due to a reduction of smoke and ash. Additionally, pellet stoves require good ventilation and a source of electricity to work properly. However, pellet stoves produce ash and creosote buildup that can block airflow and increase the risk of fire or carbon monoxide exposure. In cold climates like Alaska’s – where stoves may run continuously – weekly ash removal and a full vent cleaning at least once a year are essential to home heating safety. Ensure that you practice safe use with pellet stoves as the flames are real and can cause injury.

Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces or stoves are common heat sources and often used for additional heating and considered a good alternative for home heating safety. The appeal of electric fireplaces is lowered risk because the flame is not real. On the other hand, items around the fireplace can become very hot and even catch fire. Never store items on top of an electric fireplace and keep at least 3 feet of clearance in front of the unit. Always check that proper ventilation allows good heat distribution.  

If you buy a used electric fireplace or stove, ensure that you check the cords for fraying or damage. Do not use units with frayed or damaged cords – these decrease the home heating safety benefit. Plug your electric fireplace directly into a wall outlet – never use an extension cord or power strip. Electric fireplaces draw significant power. Using an extension cord can cause overheating, electrical fires, or tripped breakers—especially during long winter use in places like Alaska.

Home Heating Safety

Home heating safety is especially important throughout Alaska, where long, extreme winters mean heating systems run for months at a time. When equipment operates continuously, the risk of fire, carbon monoxide exposure, and system failure increases. Temperatures can stay below zero for days or even weeks. If a heating system fails, indoor pipes can freeze and burst quickly, causing major property damage and leaving families without shelter during dangerous weather.

Home Heating Safety Benefits

1. Prevents House Fires

Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of residential fires. Furnaces, space heaters, wood stoves, and chimneys can ignite nearby materials if they aren’t properly maintained or spaced. Regular inspections and safe use significantly reduce this risk and increase home heating safety.

2. Protects Against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Fuel-burning systems (oil, gas, propane, and wood) can produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Because CO is impossible to see or smell, it can accumulate unnoticed when furnaces malfunction, vents become blocked, or space heaters are used improperly. As a result, dangerous levels may build up inside the home. Therefore, installing carbon monoxide detectors and scheduling annual equipment servicing are essential steps to increasing home heating safety that can ultimately save lives.

3. Reduces Burn Injuries

Hot surfaces like radiators, wood stoves, and portable heaters can cause serious burns—especially for children and older adults. Keeping safe clearance zones and using protective guards helps prevent injuries.

4. Avoids Freezing and Property Damage

In Alaska, if a heating system fails, indoor plumbing can freeze and burst within hours during severe cold. Safe, well-maintained systems reduce the risk of costly water damage.

5. Lowers Energy Costs

A properly maintained heating system runs more efficiently, not only increasing home heating safety, but also reducing fuel consumption and saving money during long winter months.

Plan ahead – home heating safety considerations are the best way to help avoid potential dangers and ensure a warm winter season.

Johnson Law has been helping injured 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

Source(s): SMO, “How Does Oil Heat My Home?” and Fireplace Universe, “24 Things You Need To Know About Pellet Stoves” and Twin Star Home, “Are Electric Fireplaces Safe?“

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Family enjoying their warm Alaskan home

Cold Weather Risks

Every year people move hundreds of pounds shoveling snow, without even knowing how much they have lifted. In winter, with fewer opportunities to be active, our bodies are more out of condition than we realize. It is important to listen to your body to shovel snow safely and not overexert yourself. Also, to keep in mind the cold. Cold weather increases both blood pressure and heart rate.

Winter temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict (narrow) to conserve body heat. This increases peripheral vascular resistance and raises blood pressure. Simultaneously, the heart must work harder to maintain core temperature, resulting in an increased heart rate. The cold also constricts arteries which decrease blood supply. Not to mention, the toll shoveling snow takes on our muscles and backs.

Shovel Snow Safely

Be mindful: tips for shoveling snow safely include, but are not limited to:

• Warm up first (5–10 minutes).
  March in place, swing your arms, and gently stretch your back, shoulders, and hamstrings.
• Dress in layers to shovel snow safely.
  Wear insulated, breathable clothing, waterproof boots with good traction, gloves, and a hat. Remove a layer if you start to overheat.
• Use the right shovel.
  Choose a lightweight shovel with a curved handle or ergonomic grip if possible.
• Push snow instead of lifting when you can.
  Pushing is much easier on your back and heart.
• Lift small loads.
  Don’t overload the shovel. Wet, packed snow is much heavier than it looks.
• Bend your knees, not your back.
  Keep your back straight, squat down, and lift with your legs.
• Don’t twist while lifting.
  Turn your whole body by moving your feet instead of twisting at the waist.
• Pace yourself and shovel snow safely.
  Take breaks every 10–15 minutes, especially in extreme cold.
• Most importantly, listen to your body, if you don’t feel right STOP

Shoveling snow is necessary during Alaska’s winter months. It is also a potentially dangerous task. Following guidelines to shovel snow safely helps prevent injuries and make the job a little easier on your body.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for 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

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: A person shoveling snow in Alaska

Sources: National Library of Medicine; Access PT; National Safety Council; and KTUU – Alaska News Source

Preparation is key. Cold weather safety sources recommend preparations at home and for your vehicle. By being prepared, you can stay warm, safe, and survive freezing temperatures. Thus, Johnson Law offers Alaskans some essential winter tips to help keep your families safe and warm through the coldest month of the year.

Alaska’s Temperature Ranges

On average, the temperatures in Alaska’s four largest boroughs range as follows:

Anchorage: Historically, temperatures range from 9°F to 23°F with heavy snowfall and 5 to 8 hours of daylight. While averages may be in the teens for the Anchorage areas, temperatures frequently drop below zero or rise above freezing depending on the year.

Fairbanks: The interior sees average temperatures ranging from -17°F to 5°F though extreme cold is common with temperatures dropping below -40°F and only 4 to 5 hours of daylight. The interior experiences January as an extremely cold, clear, and very dry month.

Juneau: The capital city’s average daily temperature ranges from -19°F to 27°F. Weather conditions are described as freezing cold and frequently accompanied by wind and snowy, wet weather. Juneau sees about 7 to 8 hours of daylight during January.

Mat-Su: Temperatures in Alaska’s most rapidly growing borough, range from 5°F to 25°F though temperatures can dip well below zero. Daylight ranges from roughly 5.5 to 7.5 of sunlight. January usually sees heavy snowfall and deep snow throughout the Mat-Su region.

Essential Winter Tips

• Dress in Layers – Always wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or wool), and a waterproof, windproof outer shell. Remember insulated gloves, a hat, and thermal socks.
• Protect Against Frostbite and Hypothermia – Limit skin exposure, especially in subzero temperatures and watch for signs of frostbite (numbness, pale skin) and hypothermia (shivering, confusion, slurred speech).
• Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle – among the essential winter tips for driving is to carry blankets, extra clothing, food, water, a flashlight, a shovel, jumper cables, and sand or kitty litter for traction. Always keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Check Weather and Road Conditions – Before traveling, check Alaska’s Department of Transportation updates at 511AK for road closures and weather alerts. Avoid unnecessary travel during blizzards or extreme cold.
• Protect Your Home – Essential winter tips include insulating pipes to prevent freezing, keeping a backup heat source, and stocking up on essentials like food, water, and batteries are key during severe weather.
• Stay Visible and Connected – If you’re hiking or snowmobiling, tell someone your route and expected return time. Carry a GPS device or satellite communicator in remote areas.
• Be Cautious on Ice – Test ice thickness before walking or driving on frozen lakes or rivers. At least four inches of clear ice is needed for walking, and eight to twelve inches for small vehicles.
• Pets and Livestock – Provide warm shelter, unfrozen water, and extra food. Never leave pets outside for extended periods in extreme cold.
• Manage Carbon Monoxide Risks – Ensure proper ventilation when using generators or heaters. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished – Cold weather dehydrates. Drink water regularly and eat high-energy foods to maintain body heat.

Keep Kids Warm and Safe in Freezing Weather

• Protect Extremities – In addition essential winter tips such as dressing in layers, insulated gloves, warm socks, and waterproof boots, always cover heads and ears with a snug hat or balaclava. Use scarves or neck warmers to protect the face and neck.
• Keep Kids Dry – Wet clothing quickly leads to heat loss. Change out of damp clothes immediately, especially socks and gloves.
• Limit Outdoor Time – Take frequent breaks indoors to warm up. Watch for signs of frostbite (pale, numb skin) or hypothermia (shivering, confusion, fatigue).
• Keep Them Moving – Encourage light activity to maintain body heat, but avoid sweating too much.
• Warm Nutrition – Offer warm drinks like soup or cocoa and high-energy snacks to help maintain body temperature.
• Safety First – Avoid playing near icy water or roads. Make sure kids are visible with reflective gear.

Johnson Law encourages Alaskans to prioritize safety by planning, preparing, and monitoring all winter activities to help create a safer 2026. This includes adopting essential winter tips during the coldest months of the year. We hope that the Essential Winter Tips in this article help you and yours stay warmer and safer during these cold Alaska winter days and nights.

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: Alaska Climate Research Center

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Individual practicing essential winter tips for Alaska

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

Alaska’s heavy snowfalls and cold temperatures cause winter ice build up. Keep in mind that Alaskan winter activities are often accompanied by inherent hazards. When playing, fishing, or traveling over ice, it’s very important to consider possible risks. Be aware of the different thickness levels and types of ice in your area.

Understanding Ice Thickness

The strength associated with winter ice thickness varies between river, pond, and lake ice conditions. For example, river ice is 15% weaker than lake ice at the same thickness. Be wary of ice covered in slush. This could indicate the ice isn’t frozen completely through. Be sure the ice is solid, clear, blue, or black before walking out to test the thickness level.

According to the chart provided by Bethel Search and Rescue’s Ice Thickness Safety Information – ice must be at least 4 inches thick for a group of people to walk single file. Additionally, 7.5  to 10 inches of winter ice can support the weight of common vehicles.

Alaska winter ice fishing safety precautions are extremely important. Always check the ice levels surrounding the area you choose to fish. Test ice yourself using an ice chisel, auger or cordless drill with a long drill bit. Be cautious of cracks and holes in the ice and avoid going near them.

Be aware that ice doesn’t usually freeze uniformly, so while one area can be a foot thick, another spot nearby could be only a few inches thick. Keep in mind that new winter ice is generally stronger than old ice because older ice has likely warmed and cooled repeatedly and could have thin or weak areas throughout.

Keep Kids Safe On Winter Ice

Safe winter fun starts with planning and preparation. Be aware of weather conditions and review winter ice conditions before allowing children to skate or fish. Teach them how to safely walk and play on ice by distributing their weight appropriately and staying aware of their surroundings.

Help kids stay safe and warm. They should dress appropriately for winter weather activities. Children should wear layers to stay warm and dry. Appropriate protective gear should also be worn when playing in the snow or on winter ice. A helmet and mouth guard helps prevent injury from falls.

Adult supervision is very important when children are ice skating, playing hockey, or sledding, to help prevent injuries. Never leave children unattended when playing on winter ice.

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, 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

Image Source: Alaska.org: Rod’s Alaska Guide Service

Traveling Over The Holidays

Never post your travel plans online. Sharing your travel details makes you susceptible to intruders in your absence. Even if you feel that your online posts are private. Home safety includes protecting your privacy and avoiding becoming a victim by sharing specific details on the internet.

Notify a neighbor of your travel plans. The best person to increase home safety and keep an eye on your house is a person living close to you who sees your home throughout the day. Provide good contact information to your neighbor so they can easily reach you in case of emergency.

Do not make your home look appealing to a criminal. Many crimes against home safety occur because of opportunity. If you know that you will be away for extended times, do not order packages that will sit on your door step for days. Ask a friend or neighbor to grab your mail so that your mailbox is not over filling. The post office will also hold mail while you are traveling as a good way to avoid packages being stolen.

Staying Home Over The Holidays

Staying home with family or having visitors at your home are also perfect ways to spend the holiday season. It is still important to implement home safety precautions and not make yourself a target.

Do not put your tree in front of an open window with presents all around. Presents under the tree look nice. They also attract attention. Hide presents in safe locations until you plan to actually open them up. Burglars may drive by, see a tree in the window with presents surrounding it and make your home a target while you are away.

Finally, home safety includes checking the exterior of your home frequently. Walk around your home to look for oddities, lock all exterior doors before leaving home, and ensure your garage door is closed every night.

Christmas Lights And Home Safety

Fire hazards increase during the holidays. Before you string lights on the house or the tree, be sure to inspect the strands for frayed cords or cracked lamps. To prevent an accidental fire, replace any broken lamps, and throw away strands with frayed cords.

Home Safety Is a Key Part of Holiday Safety

Plan ahead – home safety considerations are the best way to help avoid potential dangers and ensure a wonderful holiday season.

Johnson Law wishes everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Johnson Law has been helping injured 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

Sources: Safewise: How to Keep Your Home Safe and Secure During the Holidays

Image Source: Anchorage Daily News

Engine Maintenance

Change the oil and oil filter to prepare for winter storage. What some people don’t realize, is that an oil change before storing your car for winter is a good idea. When your oil is old, moisture and debris can build up in your engine. Engine oil holds small particles that when not filtered, can cause corrosion within the engine. Additionally, boats commonly have issues with water getting into the engine and resting water makes for bigger problems later. It is also important to change the oil on smaller equipment, such as lawnmowers. Check manufacturers recommendations to determine the proper oil weight for storage.

Remove batteries and keep them in a cool, not cold, dry place through the Alaska winter. Consider a trickle charger. In Alaska, trickle chargers (or battery maintainers) are essential for vehicles not driven daily, especially in winter, to combat extreme cold that drains batteries. Finally, make sure that batteries are at 100% charged prior to storage.

Exterior Storage

Tires sitting for long period of winter storage can rot or become damaged from the suns UV rays. It is good to over inflate tires to avoid flat spots or dry rot. Storing your equipment on jack stands can also be beneficial. If available, use tire covers and do not forget to check tires on trailers.

Wash your outdoor equipment before winter storage to remove debris, dried mud, bug guts and other buildup from the exterior of stored equipment. Consider covering your equipment for prolonged periods of storage.

Alaska Winter Fuel System Maintenance

Fill the gas tank(s) and add fuel treatment. The fuel treatment will prolong the life of the gas so it is still usable come warmer weather after the long months of winter storage. Condensation can build up within empty tanks making it susceptible to rust or corrosion, a full tank helps avoid these issues.

To sum up, preparing for winter in advance is the best way to protect your equipment and avoid potential disasters later. Alaska winter is here. A little planning goes a long way to ensuring better living. Regardless of the season.

Johnson Law has been helping injured 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

Image Source: Alaska Structures

Make A Plan To Keep Kids Warm and Safe

Make a plan of where your kids will be and how long you’ll be outdoors. If your children want to spend a lot of time outdoors, incorporate breaks to come indoors and warm up before going back outside. If there are children playing in groups, plan to check-in periodically, ensuring everyone stays safe and is having fun.

Be sure everyone has eaten and had a glass of water before leaving the house. Take breaks from spending long periods of time outdoors to get warm indoors and refuel and rehydrate.

Keep Kids Warm

There’s an increased risk for children during winter to experience frostbite or hypothermia. Their smaller bodies not only burn energy more quickly, requiring more frequent snacks and drinks, but kids also lose body heat more easily. Follow these tips for dressing to keep kids warm:

• Dress in layers to better control body temperature when staying out for long periods. 
• Avoid cotton-based clothing for base layers. Cotton retains moisture which could lower body temperature.
• Wear a middle layer that keeps the body well insulated, like wool or down clothing.
• Outer layers should be weather appropriate to protect from snow, wind, rain, or extreme temperatures.

Keep all areas of the body warm by having all winter gear available when leaving the house. A hat, face mask, gloves or mittens, a scarf or neck warmer, warm socks, and weather resistant boots will ensure extremities are kept warm and dry.

Gearing Up For Warmth and Safety

The school bus is a great resource for children to travel to and from school. Much of the school year in Alaska involves colder weather, making it important to consider school bus safety in winter months. Help children ensure they arrive to school and return home safely.

In winter, children need to be bundled up in layers. Buses may break down or heaters may not work properly.

It is also important for children to wear reflective gear when traveling via bus because days are short in Alaska. Children traveling alone to the bus stop or children that are first on or last off especially need to be seen by drivers.

Many schools try to route bus stops close to children’s homes. If the bus stop is further from your home and your child walks to their stop, give your child a flashlight to carry. Visibility helps keep kids safe.

School Bus Awareness

When driving near a school bus route or during peak hours, look for school buses regularly. Do not follow too closely as school buses take longer to stop. Icy roads and snow buildup may delay stopping time for buses.

When a school bus has the stop sign up, stop your vehicle and wait. Children sometimes run out in front of vehicles because they are distracted or do not know better. It is up to you to keep kids safe by paying attention when a school bus is nearby.

If you see a school bus pulled over on the side of the road, slow down and keep an eye out for the driver or children when passing. School bus drivers often need to stop to add chains to tires or clean the windshield and windows to keep kids safe.

School buses are sometimes involved in accidents. If this happens, parents may need to file claims for children wo are hurt in the accident.

Keep Kids Safe As Pedestrians

It’s important for children to be visible so that other people and drivers are able to see them, especially after it gets dark out. Sunset in Alaska comes early in the winter months, leaving many pedestrians in the dark.

Keep kids safe with reflective gear or by adding reflective tape to the outermost layer of clothing to increase their visibility to drivers. Carrying a flashlight also helps drivers see them. 

Keep kids safe and warm. Teach children to stay to the side of roadways and to always wear their reflective winter layer clothing.

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

Please call Johnson Law, P.C. to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

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

Sources: Healthy Children; American Heart Association

Image Source: USA Today

January Temperatures

The average temperatures throughout Alaska for January range from -20 to 40 Fahrenheit. Approximately one-third of each year, Alaska sees temperatures fall below freezing. Cold weather can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Preparation is key.  Cold weather safety sources recommend preparations at home and for your vehicle. By being prepared, you can stay warm, safe, and survive freezing temperatures.

The Coldest Month Series

This January series’ topics will include:

• Outdoor Winter Walking Safety
• Keep Kids Safe and Warm
• Home Heating Safety
• Cold Weather Vehicle Safety
• Driving in Ice and Snow
• Snowmachine Safety
• Removing Ice and Snow Safely
• Surviving Extreme Cold

Being prepared for the coldest month of the year is very important for every environment, whether at home or in your vehicle. 

January Safety at Home

Keep your house operating during the cold Alaska January. Make sure your home has a well-maintained heating source and that you keep up with maintenance so that your heating source does not fail when you need it most. 

January Safety in Your Car

Maintaining your car during January and all winter months is especially important. No one wants to break down on the side of the road during a snowstorm or in freezing temperatures.  Check your tires, your gas tank, and your emergency supplies before traveling in extreme cold. By preparing for January, the coldest month of the year, you will be able to stay warm and enjoy it.

This January preparation article introduces a nine-part winter safety series. See our safety tips for Outdoor Winter Walking Safety; 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

Please call Johnson Law, P.C. to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Information Source: Alaska Department of Natural Resources;  Current Results

Image Source: Hamlet Hub