11/15/10
Assess Your Environment in the Winter

Winter is often associated with high winds, heavy snow and freezing temperatures. Winter is the season with the highest amount of precipitation.

Keeping walkways, driveways, and parking lots clear will help diminish slips, falls and motor vehicle accidents. Make sure snow banks do not hinder traffic or driver visibility, and are near good drainage areas. Also, make sure that salt or other melting agents are in sufficient supply for adequate distribution. A system should be in place for maintaining outdoor areas each morning, especially handrails, stairs, and ramps. Ensure that snow removal plans include the clearing of fire protection access areas.

Water due to melted snow is a particular concern. A small inconsistency in levels of concrete can ultimately lead to the formation of icy areas. It is also important to keep indoor surfaces dry. A steady vigilance of good housekeeping measures such as carpet runners, warning signs and floor cleanliness can help avoid a number of slips, trips and falls.

Before it gets too cold, patrol the outdoor areas. Note where ice might form, where water can collect and particularly, how areas will be when the ground is covered in salt, dirt, slush, and ice. Take any preemptive measures that may diminish the possibility of an accident occurring.

Be sure to have an emergency plan in place for severe weather. Your plan should include steps for early building closing, notifying employees, making arrangements for food and accommodations in case employees have to remain on site and managing operating systems, if temperatures drop toward freezing in the building.

Periodically, check the building structure for any damage, especially to roof equipment that may need replacement, and take note of any unstable areas. The weight of large snowdrifts increase the pressure applied to roof structures and may result in a roof collapse. Be sure to check the heating equipment, which should be inspected and maintained pursuant to the manufacturers' guidelines. Remember, equipment located outside or near exterior walls is susceptible to freezing in cold weather. Secure outside equipment in order to withstand strong winds.

Ensure that all fire protection equipment is protected from the elements and working properly. Items such as water mains, fire extinguishers, fire hydrants, and sprinklers systems are vulnerable to drops in temperature in severe weather.

Do not forget your employees. Periodically review your emergency plans with them and make sure they carry emergency supplies in their vehicle such as blankets, shovel, flashlight, and jumper cables.

If you are traveling and become stranded in your vehicle, there are some measures to take that will help you survive. Be sure your cell phone is charged and an emergency kit is available. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna as a signal to rescuers. Make sure your exhaust pipe is free obstructions like snow. When waiting for help, run the motor for about ten minutes every hour, and open the window slightly to let air in.

When the snow starts to fall, it is the time to review your emergency plans and make sure all aspects of it are in place. This can alleviate winter's impact on your park district and the community.