Winter increases need to observe safety measures

It's the time of year when anxious snowmachiners and other winter recreationists are ready to head outside for fun in the snow. All we need now is the snow.

Recent frigid weather, while serving as a tease for the winter fun to come, should also serve as a reminder that seasonal conditions in Alaska should never be taken for granted. Whether heading into the outdoors for recreation, or jumping into the car for a run to the grocery store, safety should always come first.

It should go without saying that vehicles should be in good working order, with decent winter tires, and all lights and turn signals operational. Replacing any old or worn-out belts, hoses and batteries ahead of time can help avert a breakdown later.

Hypothermia comes on quickly in the winter, so proper dress should also be a given. Drivers should not consider themselves immune from needing appropriate attire, given the possibility of having to change a tire or deal with a breakdown.

An excellent first line of defense for drivers in the safety department is a cellular telephone. It's also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in the vehicle that includes a tow strap or rope, sand or cat litter for traction, flares, a flashlight, a warm blanket or sleeping bag and, of course, winter boots, a warm hat and gloves.

Drivers undertaking longer or more remote trips, where the possibility of being stranded exists, should also pack food, water and a camp stove with a fuel source. Filing a travel plan with friends or family before leaving provides an additional measure of safety.

As the darker hours descend, too, we remind drivers to be aware of the possible presence of moose and schoolchildren along roadsides.

And while most area lakes, ponds and waterways are now ice-covered and inviting, they should still be approached with caution, especially if there is no sign of travel on them. Ice should be a minimum of 6 inches thick before it can safely accommodate a snowmachine, and ice fishermen need at least 4 inches to support them.

A &#8220safe” thickness in one spot does not guarantee uniformly safe ice, though, since the presence of currents or springs can make ice thinner in other spots.

Whatever mode of transportation or reason for being outside individuals choose this winter, we hope that safety and common sense will be their constant companions.