Don't Let Winter Snow and Ice Give you the Slip!

Prepare for Winter Weather & Prevent Injuries

As winter sets in, it's crucial for housing authorities to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of staff and residents. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, leading to slips, trips, and falls and major life altering injuries. Prevention is Key! Here are some effective strategies:

Ensure Good Drainage: Proper drainage systems prevent water from pooling and freezing on surfaces. Regularly check and clear drains to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Anti-Icing Before Snowfall: Apply salt or brine solutions to surfaces before snow and ice accumulate. This prevents the bonding of snow and ice to the pavement, making it easier to clear.

Enhance Salt Effectiveness: Pre-wet salt with brine or other liquids to help it stick to surfaces and work more effectively. This method can reduce the amount of salt needed and improve its performance.

Fertilizer and Coffee Grounds: In a pinch, materials like fertilizer (high in nitrogen) and coffee grounds can help melt ice and provide traction without damaging surfaces.

Prompt Shoveling and Plowing: Clear snow as soon as possible after it falls to prevent it from compacting into ice. Use shovels, snow blowers, or plows for efficient removal.

De-Icing Agents: Apply salt, sand, or other de-icing agents to melt existing ice and provide traction. Calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are effective alternatives to traditional rock salt.

Install Heated Mats: These mats can be placed on walkways and driveways to melt snow and ice automatically. They are a more passive and convenient solution, though they can be more expensive.

Perform Inspections Several Times Daily: Conduct routine inspections of parking lots and walkways as temperatures shift to identify and address potential hazards promptly.

Wear Proper Footwear: Optfor boots or shoes with non-slip soles and good traction.

Use Handrails: Always use handrails when available, especially on stairs and ramps.

Adopt a "Penguin Walk": Take small, shuffling steps to maintain balance on icy surfaces.

Keep Entryways Dry: Place mats at entrances to absorb moisture and prevent slippery floors.

Provide "Wet Gear" area at entryways: Provide coat stands, umbrella stands and winter boot trays to encourage wet gear to stay out of the way and not be tracked into indoor areas.

Report Hazards: Encourage residents to report untreated surfaces to maintenance staff promptly.

Use Proper Lighting: Ensure all outdoor areas are well-lit to help residents see and avoid hazards.

Educate Residents: Provide information on winter safety practices through newsletters, posters, and community meetings.

Use Signage: Provide information on winter safety practices through newsletters, posters, and community meetings.