In Alaska, the natural forces are always in a state of change. The wind, the rain, the ice, the snow, the dark, and the cold all battle to see which one can ruin your travel plans. Facing such temperature extremes makes the people just a little tougher, and better prepared, than everyone else. Here are nine things no Alaskan would do, probably because they learned the hard way.
1. Sleep in the summer.
Most Alaskan industries from fishing to tourism to gold mining have their peak seasons in the summer. Between intense work schedules, people engage in their normal winter preparations. Chopping wood, fishing for salmon, picking berries and repairs on homes and vehicles keep Alaskans busy while the midnight sun shines.
2. Travel unprepared.
Knowing Alaska has crazy temperature swings year round, Alaskans know to be prepared when driving. Spare tires, jacks, flares, warm gear, ice scrapers, flashlights, duct tape, tarp and ropes are part of a standard Alaskan car kit.
3. Go fishing without mud boots.
The classic brown rubber boot is an absolute standard for men and women's fashion in Alaska, especially during the fishing months. Get them with steel toes and or insulation depending on your activities.
4. Wear sneakers in the winter.
Okay, that's a lie. A lot of Alaskans wear sneakers in the colder months, especially in the warmer Southern areas. But in general, Alaskans know what kind of activities they are prepared to engage in and bring the appropriate gear.
5. Walk quietly in the woods.
Alaskans may embarrass you on a trail while singing, talking, laughing and making themselves known, but it is merely because we known the dangers of stumbling upon a bear unaware. Making noise in the forest helps alert wild animals so they can easily avoid you, and who could blame them.
6. Leave bare flesh exposed in the woods.
Mosquitos are jokingly referred to as the state bird of Alaska because they grow so big in the great state, but there are certainly a lot of them. Alaskans know to cover up and use bug dope pretty much all the time near wooded areas when temperatures are above freezing.
7. Go on the water without a life jacket.
Life jackets are required on all river, lake, and ocean vessels. The water is cold in Alaskan bodies of water and life jackets save lives. Some municipalities and parks provide life jackets for the public. Alaskans know the importance of the phrase "kids don't float."
8. Leave someone in the ditch.
In this giant state, even the busiest roads and highways can be desolate at night or in the cold months. An Alaskan would never leave someone in the ditch when they may be the only ones who can help around for the next several hours.
9. Go somewhere outdoors without telling a friend.
Alaskans know how sudden storms can come up and how unpredictable weather can be. Telling a friend about your upcoming adventure at least means someone will miss you when you don't come home on time. Alaskans have seen enough rescue crews go out to save people who only meant to go on a day hike and ended up stuck in the mountains.
Do you have a suggestion for something an Alaskan would never do? Tell us in the comments below.
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