Winter is coming! Published Oct. 2, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Cassandra Whitman 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- With winter rapidly approaching, it pays to be prepared for whatever weather may come. From below freezing temperatures, to never-ending snowfall, being prepared for all circumstances is a must. Eielson held a winter preparedness brief Sept. 29 in the base theater where several guests spoke on a different topic. Col. Richard Cole, the 354th Mission Support Group commander, made a point to explain the road conditions could be found on the base website and how there are four different colors representing different road conditions: green conditions are normal, amber conditions vary from normal to dangerous, red conditions are hazardous and black conditions are very hazardous. It is important to exercise extreme caution when driving in amber, red or black conditions since black ice hides everywhere. Master Sgt. Brandon Cruz, a 354th Fighter Wing ground safety manager, stressed the importance of knowing signs of cold-related illnesses. Hypothermia, frostbite and dehydration are just a few things that can happen in cold temperatures. It is important to cover all skin, including fingers, toes and ears when temperatures reach below freezing. Dress in layers when going outside. It is also imperative to drink a lot of water to keep hydrated. If you start to feel cold, or start feeling numbness anywhere on your body, be sure to seek shelter in a heated place to warm up. In Alaska, the winter also brings darkness for most of the day. Cruz stated the importance of wearing a reflective belt in the hours of darkness and during inclement weather when in uniform. When outside, keep safe and wear reflective or light-colored clothing. Children should also wear reflective gear if they walk to school or play outside when it's dark. Winterizing vehicles is also very important in Alaska. If vehicles are not properly winterized, the engines may freeze and cause the vehicle not to start. Cruz said a few things to keep handy in your vehicle during winter is a shovel, blankets, survival kit, gloves and hats, etc. Also, it is recommended to keep the gas tank at least half full, in case of emergency or extremely cold temperatures. During the winter, seasonal affective disorder is also common. Capt. Abigail Rose, a 354th Medical Group mental health provider, talked about the symptoms and prevention methods for SAD. Weight gain of more than five to six pounds, not sleeping, low motivation and social isolation are all symptoms of SAD. To help prevent this, Rose suggested getting out of the house. Even though it's cold, try to find something to do, or maybe pick up a hobby. Exercise and light therapy are also good ways to combat SAD. If you feel you are starting to see the signs and symptoms of SAD, mental health and chaplains are available to talk to. Maj. Erin Hancock, the 354th Force Support Squadron commander spoke on ways to be prepared in case of an emergency evacuation. She recommended an evacuation kit be kept with copies of important documents such as financial, medical and insurance records. It would also be handy to keep personal grab-and-go bags for each family member. The bags could include changes of clothes for up to three days, cold weather gear, toiletries, books, etc. A family bag with non-perishable food items, a cell phone, flashlight and batteries is also suggested. Col. William Culver, the 354th Fighter Wing vice commander, ended the brief with a recap of what the other speakers talked about. He emphasized the importance of being prepared for winter hazards and freezing temperatures. "Our slogan is ready to go at 50 below for a reason," Culver said.