I Grew up in Alaska: What People Should Know About Living There

As beautiful as it is, Alaska is also deadly. Thanks to its remoteness, weather, and wildlife, most residents learn basic survival skills early on.

Alaska kids grow up camping, hunting, and fishing — I know how to handle firearms, build a fire, and which berries are good to eat.

Most drivers keep a set of jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and extra winter gear in their cars, and many homes have generators in case of power outages.

I kept a go-bag in my closet at all times, full of emergency items and non-perishable food, in case of a catastrophic event that required a quick exit.

Though I don’t miss living in a place where it snows half the year, I’m proud that growing up in the far north left me with valuable skills I still use today.

Alaska isn’t for the faint of heart, but for me, it will always be home.