Winter survival in sub zero temps

January 3, 6:37 AMAlaska Transportation ExaminerGeorge Angus

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For over a week now, much of the state has been stuck in the icy grip of a stubborn high pressure system that is keeping the temperature way below zero.  Folks in interior Alaska are facing -50F temperatures and there's no end in sight.

These conditions are life threatening.  Even a trip across town has an element of danger if you and your vehicle are not prepared.

Here are some tips to make it through:

• First, ask yourself if this trip is really necessary.  Is there any way you could put it off until a warmer day?  It makes no sense to risk death or injury on a trip that is not needed.
• Don't think that just because you have a cell phone, you'll be ok and don't need to have a contingency plan.  We all know that cell coverage is spotty at best and with some carriers "spotty" would be considered an upgrade.  A cell phone could be your life line, but don't make it your only one.
• Did you review the    Winter driving tips article I posted a while back?  Head on over and have a look.  I'll wait.
• If your vehicle is unreliable or has been having issues recently, don't head out.  Severely cold weather is murder on an older vehicle especially and if you get stranded, there could be real trouble afoot.
• Do you have a winter survival kit in your car?  No?  Well, put one together, you'll be glad you did.  Extra blankets, flares, fire starting material, flashlights - mainly things geared toward keeping you warm, since that will be your greatest challenge.
• File a drive plan.  Just like a flight plan for pilots, a drive plan could be life saving.  If you need to make the drive from Fairbanks to Anchorage for example, let a friend or family member know your time of departure, your intended route and when you anticipate arriving at your destination.  Call in and report to them if your plan changes or if you get held up somehow.  Also, be sure and contact them when you safely arrive.

Nearly every year someone dies on the highways in Alaska because they didn't take the necessary precautions in the winter.  We live in a cold and unforgiving environment.  We cannot afford to take a carefree attitude when it comes to winter driving in sub-zero temperatures.