Alaska winters can be hard to handle, especially as we continue to experience negative temperatures. It is important to prepare ahead of time before heading out in the Alaskan weather, even if you plan to be out for a short time.
Layer Your Clothing
It is important to layer clothes when going out into the Alaskan cold, especially if you plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time. Layers allow you to remove or add as your body adjusts to the temperatures. The best part about layers is if the temperature drops unexpectedly, you can add more so that you do not have to adjust plans.
Remove layers to avoid overheating and causing your body to try to cool itself down. Sweating in layers of warm clothing is not only uncomfortable, it also increases the possibility of dehydration and hypothermia. Stay well hydrated and come indoors often to regulate your body temperature.
Understanding Frost Bite
Frost bite can happen even if the temperature is not negative. The temperature of an object can be lower than the temperature of its environment, so even if it doesn’t seem too cold, you can still become victim of frost bite.
Frost bite has three stages. The first degree of frost bite involves irritation of the skin, minor redness and little pain. The second degree of frost bite involves blisters and generally does not cause permanent damage but is more painful. The third degree of frost bite involves all layers of the skin and causes permanent tissue damage. This type of frost bite is the most painful.
The hands and feet are the most susceptible to frost bite. The best way to avoid frost bite is to wear gloves appropriate for the weather conditions. Very thin gloves are not good for extreme temperatures and will not properly protect you from frost bite. Wearing appropriate socks to keep feet dry and well insulated is also very important when the temperature drops.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
