Potential Hazards

• Bridges: Watch for ice on bridges during winter months. • Slow-moving vehicles: You may encounter a variety of slow-moving vehicles. These vehicles are often equipped with slow-moving-vehicle signs, i.e. an orange triangle trimmed in red. Be cautious around snow removal equipment: do not pass until the driver of the vehicle permits you to do so with a visual signal.

• Railroad crossings: There are a few railroad crossings throughout the local area. Some are marked with gates and/or flashing lights. Others may be identified only by black-and-white cross arms.

• Animal strikes: Animal strikes in the local area occur frequently. Animals typically encountered include moose, fox and bear. Animal strikes are a special concern, not just for motorcycles, but for all passenger vehicles. Drivers taking emergency evasive action to avoid animals are at risk. Because drivers don't have the opportunity to practice emergency maneuvers, they may be placing themselves, and others, into uncontrollable situations. In almost all instances, it may be better to hit the animal with a glancing blow instead of trying to avoid it and winding up in a ditch, driving over a cliff, or hitting a tree or telephone pole at up to 65 mph.

• Glenn Highway: The Glenn Highway is a divided 4-6 lane highway. You will use the Glenn Highway if you travel to Anchorage, Eagle River or the Palmer/Wasilla area. The speed limit is 65 mph for most of the highway. Use caution during low-visibility times and during inclement weather. Moose can cause severe damage to vehicles at these speeds, so be alert.

• Seward Highway: The Seward Highway can be dangerous during low-visibility conditions. Be aware of road closures due to avalanche danger and severe weather. Dangerous curves and animals in the road contribute to the hazards.

• Black Ice: The primary problem faced by winter drivers is skidding on slick or icy roadways and black ice. Black ice occurs when temperatures are near freezing. Bridges, overpasses and shaded areas freeze sooner and remain frozen longer than other road surfaces.

•Hydroplaning: On wet pavement, your tires may ride on the water instead of the pavement. This is known as hydroplaning and means a loss of traction and control. Hydroplaning can happen at any speed greater than 35 mph. In severe rainstorms, the tires can lose all contact with the road at 55 mph. Slow down and drive with caution during these conditions.

• Cook Inlet and Ship Creek: Be cautious while fishing in Ship Creek because the mud flats can be as dangerous as quicksand. Be extra careful in the mud during an incoming tide. Be aware of changing weather conditions and tides.

• Winterizing your wardrobe: Winter demands proper attire — heavy coats, mittens, wool socks, boots and more. The base exchange, as well as numerous department stores off base, stock all the winter clothing and gear required to stay warm in the winter.

For Airmen, Arctic Issue supplies required cold weather clothing and gear needed for duty, including parkas, hats, gloves, cold weather boots, socks and long underwear. A letter of non-availability will be given to individuals whose units purchase specialty items not stocked in Arctic Issue, like Gortex gloves and polypropylene socks. Arctic Issue is located at 4240 Gibson Ave. For more information, call 552-2578.

Soldiers receive cold weather gear from the Central Issue Facility during in-processing. The Central Issue Facility is located in Building 804, Door 7. For an appointment, call, 384-1821/1828.  read more...

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