BLOG NUMBER 28.27
As winter approaches, the dangers posed by snow and ice become a pressing concern for businesses and homeowners alike. According to the National Safety Council, over 156,000 people are injured each year in vehicle crashes due to snowy and icy roads. Snow and ice incidents don’t just pose risks to drivers—they affect property, logistics, and safety on multiple levels.
Preparing for these hazardous conditions can save lives, reduce injuries, and protect property. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies to get ready for the challenges of snow and ice while minimizing risks.
The Impact of Snow and Ice Incidents
Winter weather can disrupt everyday life in profound ways, from halting transportation networks to damaging infrastructure. Snow and ice incidents are more than just minor inconveniences—they are often responsible for severe accidents and economic losses.
- Snow Incidents: Snow can accumulate quickly, creating dangerous road conditions, affecting visibility, and collapsing roofs under heavy loads. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavements . These incidents lead to major disruptions in transportation, delivery services, and workplace operations.
- Ice Incidents: While snow presents a visibility challenge, ice is often an invisible hazard. Black ice, in particular, is notorious for causing sudden accidents. Ice incidents can lead to falls, vehicle crashes, and significant damage to buildings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls on ice are a major cause of injury, resulting in over one million injuries per year .
Preparation is Key
The good news is that many snow and ice incidents are preventable with proper planning and preparation. Here are steps businesses and homeowners can take to prepare for the upcoming winter season.
1. Create a Winter Weather Safety Plan
Developing a winter weather safety plan is essential for ensuring that employees and family members know what to do when snow or ice incidents occur. A comprehensive safety plan should include:
- Emergency contact information for key personnel.
- Snow and ice removal strategies for walkways, driveways, and parking areas.
- Weather monitoring systems to receive timely updates on conditions.
- Work-from-home contingencies for employees during severe weather.
By establishing clear protocols ahead of time, you’ll be able to respond to winter hazards more efficiently and minimize risk.
2. Prepare for Snow and Ice Removal
Snow and ice removal is a critical part of winter safety. Whether for a business or a residence, ensuring that surfaces are cleared quickly and effectively can prevent accidents. Here are some effective snow and ice removal methods:
- Use De-Icing Products: Salt and sand are two common materials used to treat icy surfaces. These products can lower the freezing point of water, making it more difficult for ice to form.
- Invest in Snow Removal Equipment: Snow blowers, shovels, and plows are essential for fast snow removal. Keep your tools in good working order and ready for action when snow incidents occur.
- Consider Professional Snow Removal Services: For large properties or businesses, hiring a professional snow removal service can save time and reduce liability concerns.
3. Strengthen Your Infrastructure
Buildings and vehicles often bear the brunt of winter weather. To minimize damage from snow and ice incidents, take steps to strengthen your infrastructure:
- Inspect Your Roof: Snow accumulation on roofs can become dangerously heavy, leading to leaks or even collapse. Before winter hits, have a professional inspect your roof for any potential vulnerabilities. Flat roofs are especially prone to snow buildup.
- Reinforce Windows and Doors: Cold winds and ice storms can weaken windows and doors. Consider weatherproofing or upgrading to more insulated options.
- Winterize Vehicles: Icy roads are hazardous, so make sure your vehicle is prepared by checking tires, wiper blades, and heating systems. Anti-lock brakes and traction control are particularly useful features in snowy or icy conditions.
4. Monitor Weather Conditions
Keeping a close eye on the weather is critical during the winter months. Thankfully, modern technology makes it easy to stay informed:
- Install Weather Apps: Download apps that provide real-time updates on snow and ice incidents. Apps like AccuWeather and The Weather Channel offer instant notifications when snow or ice is on the way.
- Check Road Conditions: Before heading out, check local road conditions through traffic cameras or government websites to avoid snow-related accidents.
By monitoring conditions, you can make more informed decisions about when and where it is safe to travel.
Winter Safety for Employees and Customers
For businesses, keeping employees and customers safe during the winter is a top priority. Snow and ice incidents can lead to liability concerns, and it’s essential to take proactive steps to reduce risks on your property.
1. Ensure Safe Walkways
Icy walkways can lead to slips and falls, which can result in serious injuries. Regularly check and treat sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots for ice. Consider:
- Anti-Slip Mats: Place anti-slip mats near all entrances to give employees and customers a safer place to wipe their feet before entering.
- Proper Lighting: Well-lit areas can help people see icy patches before they become a problem.
2. Communicate Clearly
Make sure to communicate any closures, changes in business hours, or road hazards to employees and customers in advance. Use email, social media, or a company website to relay important updates.
- Employee Communication: Create a clear protocol for notifying employees about changes to their schedule, including snow days and office closures.
- Customer Alerts: Inform customers about adjusted hours or potential delivery delays due to snow incidents, ensuring transparency and trust.
3. Provide Winter Safety Training
Ensure that employees are trained to handle snow and ice incidents. Safety training can cover topics such as how to safely clear ice, use of proper footwear to prevent falls, and how to report hazards.
Prepare Your Business for the Unexpected
No matter how much you prepare, winter weather can still bring unexpected surprises. That’s why having a contingency plan is critical for business continuity during snow and ice incidents. Consider the following:
- Backup Power Supply: Severe ice storms can cause power outages. Make sure your business has backup generators to keep critical systems running.
- Insurance Review: Review your property and liability insurance to ensure that you are covered for snow and ice incidents, including roof damage, flooding from snowmelt, and injury claims.
- Supply Chain Management: Snow and ice incidents can delay shipments and affect the supply chain. Plan ahead by stocking up on essential materials and coordinating with vendors for potential delays.
Start Planning Now to Prevent Snow and Ice Incidents
Winter weather is unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you have to be unprepared. Snow and ice incidents can have a serious impact on your safety and your business, but with the right preparation and strategy, you can minimize the risks.
From safety plans to snow removal strategies, taking proactive steps can help ensure that you’re ready for whatever the winter season brings. Start planning now, and you’ll be well-equipped to face the challenges of snow and ice this year. Swenson Consulting is a snow slip and fall expert & consulting business helping business owners grow their snow business and navigate the challenges that come with this growth at different levels.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—winter safety is no accident!
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