Accident Prevention: Change in Seasons, Change in Risks
September 23, 2015 at 2:21am MDT, marked the Autumnal Equinox – depending on your point of view, it’s sadly the end of summer or the cheerfully the beginning of fall. Either way, it signifies a change of seasons and as with any change, there comes an increase in risks for accidents or injuries. Two things spring to mind with regard to change at this time of year: fluctuating temperatures and reduced daylight hours.
The days continue to get shorter, the average temperature eventually drops and the cold winter months ahead loom large, so it is important to be prepared for the rollercoaster-like period of transition from summer to winter. Here are a few things to keep in mind as these two aspects influence our environment this fall:
- Dress Appropriately: There are going to be warm, possibly even hot, days and there are going to be cold and frosty days. Unfortunately, the temperature does not drop consistently so watching the forecast and dressing according to conditions is key to being prepared for all conditions. Wearing layers that can be removed as the day warms up will prevent overheating without getting chilled; having gloves, hats, sweaters, coats and socks available can provide a layer of warmth as temperatures drop. Proper footwear will help avoid the risk of slips and falls on frost or ice covered sidewalks, pathways or parking lots.
- Remember Protective Gear: The sun is still strong even if the temperatures are cool, so remembering to use sunscreen and wear sunglasses if you are working outside is still important, as is keeping hydrated. Ensuring that the appropriate seasonal workwear and equipment, for both warm and cold weather, is available and in good condition is vital to minimizing risk. It’s time for that winter tune-up on your vehicle, to book an appointment to get the snow tires on and make sure the emergency kit is stocked and in the car.
- Beware Dwindling Daylight Hours: As the days continue to get shorter, so does the available time to complete tasks outdoors. Unlike the spring when days are getting longer and the window to finish work is ever stretched, it is now contracting and the impulse to work faster to finish projects get harder to resist. The ‘beat the light’ approach often results in taking shortcuts and working in poor visibility which inevitably leads to an increased risk of injury or accident. Even getting to and from your workplace at dusk or in the dark presents a greater challenge.
- Be Alert to Driving Conditions: Early morning fog and frost warnings are common at this time of the year. Unlike spring where everyone has been driving in winter conditions for months, it seems like we tend to forget everything we’ve learned about driving in snow and ice. All too soon, driving to and from work in the dark will be the norm. Making sure you leave extra time to get where you need to be and paying extra attention to the road and other vehicles can make the difference between arriving at your destination safely or becoming a statistic.
These suggestions are not all-inclusive and it’s impossible to anticipate or avoid every potential incident; being aware and prepared for known hazards can minimize the risk of injury or accident not only for you but for those around you. So take a moment to identify your potential risks, take action and stay safe!
As always, we are available to answer your questions and/or address your concerns to the best of our ability. You can reach us directly at [email protected] , [email protected], by phone at 1-844-377-9545 or you can connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
