Anchorage, Alaska — With colder temperatures returning across the state, the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is reminding drivers to slow down and remember one key winter driving tip: BARFF, Bridges and Ramps Freeze First.
As winter conditions develop, bridge decks, ramps, and overpasses tend to ice up earlier than other parts of the roadway, even when the rest of the road appears dry or clear. This happens because air circulates above and below these elevated structures, causing them to lose heat faster than the ground.
DOT&PF advises all motorists, from new drivers to experienced Alaskans, to take extra caution when approaching bridges and ramps, especially during early morning hours or after light snow and freezing fog.
Drivers are encouraged to check real-time road and weather conditions before traveling using 511.alaska.gov or the Alaska 511 mobile app
