Safety Alert: Prepare for Winter Weather

With winter storms threatening to hit the U.S. almost weekly, it’s important to prepare your business and clients for potential hazardous conditions.

When winter weather strikes, there is a growing possibility of finding yourself driving in dangerous conditions. Staying warm and safe can also be a challenge. Winter storms can bring cold temperatures, power failures, loss of communication services, and icy roads.

Additionally, slips, trips and falls can be a major hazard and liability. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 15% of all workplace accidents are slips, trips and falls. Help protect employees and patrons from these accidents when snow and ice cause slippery conditions.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

If you must travel during winter weather, preparing your car in advance, knowing the forecast and driving based on road conditions are three keyways to help you drive more safely. Following are some safety tips, preparing you for the elements.

• Before leaving the driveway or parking lot, take time to clear snow and ice off your car
• Drive with your headlights on to improve visibility
• Reduce speed, increase your distance between vehicles and allow more time to stop
• Consider taking routes where cell phone reception is strong in case of an emergency
• Be on the lookout for possible black ice
• Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas
• Keep windshield wipers in good condition and windshield wiper fluid filled
• Stock your car with a winter driving survival kit, including an ice scraper, snow shovel, salt and road flares
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast frequently

How to Prevent Claims Due to Icy Conditions at Work

While slip, trip and fall hazards are present year-round, there is an increased potential for them in the winter months due to snow and ice. Here are some guidelines your organization can use to protect employees and clients:

• Develop and implement snow and ice removal plans
• Keep walkways, parking lots and private roads salted frequently
• Property owners should know the requirements of the municipality in which they own and manage property

Don’t Leave Your Clients Vulnerable at Home

As we saw in Texas last year, winter weather can surface in even the most unlikely places. Should a deep freeze arrive in Delaware or your clients’ locations, here are steps to take to help reduce the potential for property damage.

• Prevent pipes from freezing by turning off your water or leaving faucets on with a slight trickle
• Keep driveways and sidewalks clear
• Stock up on candles, batteries and flashlights
• Charge cell phones and invest in portable power banks
• Buy nonperishable foods in case you lose electricity

Special thanks to our partners at Travelers for assisting with content.

For more information, click here to review additional tips and suggestions.

If you have a claim to report, please visit the Client Center on our website for a directory of insurance company claims contacts.

Questions? Contact your Lyons representative today to discuss your winter weather plans and insurance needs.