Anchorage, AK – As Alaska moves through the heart of the winter and Christmas season, Anchorage residents are preparing for the deep snow, bitter cold, and prolonged darkness that define this time of year. Although no specific storm is currently being forecast, snow removal remains a near-daily routine across much of Alaska—and safety officials say adopting smarter techniques is essential to reducing injury.
A study from Nationwide Children’s Hospital examining national data from 1990 to 2006 documented 1,647 fatalities tied to cardiac-related injuries from snow shoveling. Because extreme cold amplifies cardiovascular strain, medical experts strongly recommend that anyone over age 55 avoid heavy shoveling altogether.
Winter safety specialists emphasize the importance of proper tools in Alaska’s harsh climate. Lightweight ergonomic shovels allow residents to push instead of lift heavy, compacted snow, reducing heart and muscle strain. Electric or gas-powered snow blowers are strongly encouraged in Anchorage, where large overnight accumulations are common. Long-handled roof rakes help homeowners remove packed snow and prevent roof damage or ice dams without climbing onto dangerous, snow-covered surfaces.
Experts recommend pretreating driveways, walkways, decks, and stairs with sand or pet-safe ice melt before snow arrives to reduce compaction and make cleanup easier. After clearing snow, applying a thin layer of melt helps prevent ice from reforming—especially important during Alaska’s long stretches of subzero temperatures.
AAA urges residents to stay alert for carbon monoxide hazards by keeping home and vehicle exhaust vents clear of snow. They also emphasize pacing: taking frequent breaks, staying hydrated despite the cold, dressing in multiple layers, and avoiding strenuous early-morning activity when the heart is more vulnerable.
By preparing early and using safer winter-removal methods, Anchorage residents can better manage Alaska’s extreme winter conditions throughout the Christmas season.
