The pines trees are capped with snow. The birds are chirping, and the kids are laughing. You feel magical walking in a winter wonderland…until you find yourself slipping on the ice buried beneath the snow.
At some point, most of us have seen someone have a dangerous spill on slippery winter grounds. You may have been a victim yourself. Whether it’s invisible ice on a pathway or the freezing, unforgiving temperatures, there are ways to protect ourselves from winter hazards. From falls to heavy-duty shoveling to combating the dipping temperatures, here are some tips to staying safe during snowy, icy, and freezing conditions:
Walking. Walk like a penguin. Walk as flat-footed as possible in very icy areas. Walk slowly and carefully. Wear boots or other slip-resistant footwear.
Exiting. Use special care when getting in and out of vehicles. Use the vehicle for support if you need to do so.
Carrying. Try to avoid carrying too many items at once. Don’t walk with your hands in your pockets, it lessens the ability to catch yourself if you lose balance.
Avoiding. Avoid uneven surfaces if possible. Steer clear from steps or curbs with ice on them. Report any untreated surfaces to whoever oversees maintenance or facilities.
Shoveling. Do not shovel after eating or while smoking. Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it’s lighter. Don’t not shovel until you’re exhausted. Know the signs of a heart attack. Stop immediately and call 911 if you’re feeling any of them; every minute counts.
Covering. Frostbite can sneak up on you. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. In other words, wear a hat and mittens, which are better than gloves. Try to stay dry and out of the wind. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold.
Shoveling snow is one of the leading causes of wintertime injuries for business and home owners across the country. It’s time to let the professionals handle the heavy lifting! The team at Madison Window Cleaning offers comprehensive and cost-effective snow removal services that cover the entire winter season. We’ll ensure business customers and home visitors can easily enter the property by clearing walkways ready for their arrival! Give us a call at (608) 256-7632!
