Be Safe in Anchorage

Anchorage is generally a safe place to visit, with relatively low crime rates. The biggest safety concerns here are associated with nature, but by following the local advice, you should have no problems.

Safety

Anchorage is a relatively safe place to visit and few tourists experience any problems here, with the majority of the safety warnings here relating to nature and weather conditions.

Seeing a moose in the wild is a great experience, but tourists should take care, as there are a few cases every year of people being attacked by adult moose. An adult moose with its ears lowered is a sign that it is annoyed. A similar number of attacks occur each year with black or brown bears; if you are walking in thick bush or around a corner, making a little noise as you walk is a good idea. Visitors should be aware that there are quite strict rules about rubbish disposal, with all bins being bear proof, and food should never be left outside, as it may attract dangerous wildlife.

There is a small amount of car crime in Anchorage. If you do rent a car, make sure you don’t leave any valuables inside. Driving in winter can be difficult for those who are not used to the conditions, and you should be wary of moose on the road, especially at night.

On no account should you consider walking on the mudflats that surround Anchorage such as at Cook Inlet. The mudflats are like quicksand and walking out on them at low tide is extremely dangerous and indeed, potentially fatal. There are a number of horror stories about people getting completely stuck and drowning as the tide comes in.

Police: 911

Health

There are few specific health risks to travellers in Anchorage. Tap water is safe to drink and food preparation is generally hygienic, as in other US states. If you require prescription drugs, you will not be able to purchase them from a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription.

Anchorage’s weather is fairly unpredictable and you should pack some warm clothes, even if you visit in the summer, as the evenings can be quite cool. In the summer, mosquitoes can be a problem outside of the city, so it is a good idea to have some repellent with you. For winter travel, you will need proper winter clothes including hats, gloves and suitable boots.

Alaska Regional Hospital: +1 907 276 1131