Studded Tire Season Is Here: Winter-Prep Checklist for Safer Driving in Alaska
Alaska’s first slick mornings are already popping up, and with studded tire season underway, it’s time for a quick but thorough winter-prep once-over. This post covers the essentials that reduce crash risk—and headaches—when the weather turns.
Your quick safety checklist
- Tires: Install studs or confirm winter tires have adequate tread and correct pressure (check weekly as temps drop).
- Wipers & fluid: Replace worn blades and top off low-temp washer fluid to keep vision clear in slush and spray.
- Lights: Clean lenses and verify all bulbs; long, dark commutes demand maximum visibility.
- Emergency kit: Blanket, gloves, hat, traction sand, jumper cables, flashlight, first-aid kit, and a phone charger.
- Drive plan: Add time for dawn/dusk moose movement and the season’s first black ice on bridges and shaded curves.
- Now is the time to stock your vehicle with an emergency kit, including items such as flares, a shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, gravel (kitty litter works great too!), extra car fluids such as oil and windshield washer fluid, an emergency blanket, extra gloves, boots and a hat.
If a collision happens
1) Call 911.
2) Get medical evaluation, even if you “feel fine.”
3) Document the scene (photos/video, conditions, witnesses).
4) Report to your insurer.
5) Call Kelley & Canterbury for clear next steps.
How we help: If you’re hurt, we’ll handle the legal maze—so you can focus on getting well.
Call (907) 276-8185 for a free consultation.