There is a significant increase in the number of reported slips, trips and falls during the winter months and below are a few tips on avoiding injury:

• Ensure staff members, particularly those working or running activities outside are wearing appropriate footwear
• Take time out now to isolate external taps or make sure they are appropriately lagged to avoid leaks as the colder weather sets in
• Check guttering, outside taps and drain for leaks and blockages to ensure water can drain away and doesn’t turn to ice
• Ensure adequate supplies of grit/rock salt and that shovels and any spreading equipment is in good working order

Travelling to Work or School by Car

Here are a few tips:

• Always check the traffic and weather reports for your journey, particularly on the days when the conditions are challenging, check the local and regional traffic reports for any localised issues
• Allow an extra 20 minutes for short journeys, 30 minutes for longer ones – better to arrive early…
• Make sure your car is ready for winter – keep oil, water, screen wash and brake fluid topped up
• Check the tyre treads and pressures – make sure to adjust them for winter and wet conditions
• Pack an emergency kit into the boot – first aid kit, torch, water bottle (with water!), blankets, hazard triangles, coats, hats, gloves, emergency contact numbers and snacks that will last!
• If you live or travel in rural locations consider snow tyres or snow chains
• Consider a breakdown policy – if this isn’t an option then consider an emergency plan should you get stuck or break down. Who will rescue you?
• Make sure your mobile phone is charged suffice to make it home – no point having one if you can’t use it when you need to

We have a number of related training courses to help you keep safe this Winter.  From risk assessment training to help consider workplace hazards, through to working at height courses to help clear those gutters out and First Aid for those occasions when people do injure themselves, we can help.