FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska -- Alaska is beautiful this time of year, snow twinkles under the lights, frost clings to tree limbs and the aurora dance in the sky. However, as the snow falls and the days get shorter, winter activities such as shoveling the driveway, cross country skiing or just playing outside at recess can easily turn from fun to dangerous.
According to the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, frostbite is the most common cold weather injury in interior Alaska; although, in most circumstances, the frostbite is superficial and can be treated at home.
In the simplest form, frostbite is the freezing of tissue. The onset and severity of frostbite may be affected by air temperature, wind speed, duration of exposure and the amount of area exposed. The extremities furthest from the core of the body, such as toes, nose and fingers, are the most sensitive areas and the most likely to see frostbite.
The good news, said Maj. Matthew Chamberlain, chief of preventive medicine for Medical Department Activity-Alaska, is that frostbite is completely preventable.
In addition to the typical advice of covering extremities, wearing warm clothing and taking frequent breaks to warm up, there are several other factors that can assist in combatting frostbite.
Staying hydrated, layering up and layering down depending on activity and checking the temperature rating of outdoor equipment are all important to staying safe.
"Dehydration doesn't seem like a big issue in a cold environment," said Chamberlain, "but dehydrations can contribute significantly to frostbite and other cold weather injuries."
Sweating in clothing layers or from exertion, the dry Alaska air and breathing are all significant ways of losing hydration. To help combat dehydration make sure to bring fluids on outdoor excursions, cover the mouth and nose to minimize fluid loss from breathing and have warm fluids ready to drink upon returning indoors.
A second important factor in preventing frostbite is to dress in layers and to remember to layer down when necessary.
"Layering involves putting on a base layer and then an additional two to three layers that can be taken off as activity increases," said Chamberlain.
The base layer of clothing is closest to the skin and is meant to wick moisture away from the body so the wearer stays dry, warm and comfortable. Polyester, wool and polypropylene make great base layers.
The next layer, or layers, depending on temperature, is used as an insulating layer that will trap warm air against the body. Down, polyester fleece, and wool are all appropriate for this layer.
The outer layer, or shell is meant to protect the insulating layers from elements such as wind and snow.
While it is important to layer clothing before going outside, it is just as important to know when to take layers off.
Chamberlain stressed the importance of being aware of body conditions when outside and monitoring for cold and warmth.
"Many people don't realize they are sweating quite a bit as they exert energy," said Chamberlain. "Staying dry is extremely important in the cold environment."
Chamberlain also encouraged newcomers to the state to check the weather rating of their clothing. Outdoor gear purchased in the mid-west or south is likely not meant for Alaska's extreme colds. Outerwear should have a tag indicating the temperatures it was made to withstand. Finding clothing and boots rated to -30 or -40 is best for the Alaskan climate.
Most of all, said Chamberlain, always be prepared.
"Always have enough warm weather gear to be able to walk half of the distance you are set to travel," said Chamberlain. "You never know when you will end up being outside much longer than planned. Being prepared will keep you and your family safe."
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