Winter Safety Tips
Every year we know it’s coming. Yet the first cold blast of winter is still a shock. Did we really think that the beautiful days of autumn would not succumb to the icy days of winter? We can’t expect that in central Indiana! As we enter the cold and snowy season, we are also entering a season that brings with it some increased risks. It is important to be aware of the potential danger that accompanies winter weather so that you can take steps to minimize your risk.
Risks to Your Health
The cold weather that inevitably arrives this time of year does more than just make us uncomfortable. It actually takes a toll on our bodies. When it is cold, it requires more energy just to maintain normal bodily functions. This is a stress on the body, though in healthy individuals it is a minimal one. Health is additionally strained by the assault on the immune system caused by increased infectious diseases. For these reasons, winter sees a spike in illnesses as well as heart attacks. To stay well during the winter months, get plenty of rest, stay away from sick individuals, and don’t exert yourself beyond your limits.
Risks at Home
Winter weather can be hazardous to your house as well as your body. One of the most damaging elements of winter can be the freezing temperatures. Severe cold can freeze water in your pipes or water that is blocked in your gutters or on your roof. The expansion that occurs in the freezing process can cause pipes to burst or ice dams to form, resulting in household floods. To avoid these damaging events, ensure pipes (especially those on an outside wall) stay adequately warm and remove any obstructions to water flow patterns on your exterior.
Another common danger during severe winter weather is fallen or uprooted trees. Brisk winds can easily bring down branches or even trees. Just a little bit of heavy ice or snow can also do a lot of damage and do it quickly. Since weak or dead trees or branches are more susceptible to wind, snow, and ice, they should be taken care of before they fall on your valuable property, such as home or car. Ping’s can trim these dangerous branches for you or take down dead trees. They are also ready to clean up any tree emergencies that you experience.
Risks on the Road
Accumulating snow and icy temperatures affect more than just your home. They also have a significant effect on the roads. When winter storms blow in quickly, they can cause the roads to become very dangerous in a short span of time. The best defense against these risks is to stay off the roads when possible. But that is not always feasible. When you have to travel in inclement weather, you should be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It is also important to have an emergency kit in your car. The kit should include your phone and a charger, a blanket, hat and gloves, a flashlight, flares, a first-aid kit, and snacks. While you might not always be able to predict when severe weather will hit, you can be prepared when it does.
Risks to Your Business
Finally, if you are a business owner, you have not only yourself, your family, and your home to protect, but also your business. You must consider your employees and your commercial property. Some of the same risks for homes also exist for commercial property. Be on the look-out for vulnerable trees and branches as well as potential flooding disasters. It is also important to avoid the potential liability of slick parking lots and sidewalks. Failing to deal with snow and ice can result in serious accidents and injuries to customers or employees. Ping’s is now offering reliable snow removal services. When the snow falls, Ping’s will take care of it for you so you don’t have to worry.
There’s no doubt about it – winter can be a dangerous time in central Indiana. But if you are prepared and sensible, you can keep yourself safe. Ping’s is happy to serve you at this time of the year and lessen your risks when we can. Call us at 317-298-8482 for more information about our services or to make an appointment.
This post first appeared on https://pingstreeservice.com