Waking up to a blanket of white snow doesn’t have the same level of excitement to it as it did when you were a child. As an adult, you most likely won’t get to spend the day building snowmen, forts, and sledding. Instead, waking up to snow means shoveling the driveway and sidewalk. It means cleaning snow off your car, maybe attaching chains to your tires, and driving much slower than usual during your already lengthy commute to work.
The snow and ice that winter brings aren’t just a morning inconvenience. They can are a safety hazard to your loved ones as well as your property. How can you ensure your family enjoys a safe winter season?
Snow and Ice Hazards
The first step in preventing injuries and property damage is recognizing the hazards that come with the harsh winter weather. Some of the most common risks caused by ice and snow include:
- Falls from slipping
- Injuries caused by being struck by falling snow or ice
- Water damage to the home
- Collapsed roof
How to Prevent Falls
Keeping walkways clear of snow and ice is essential to preventing injuries caused by falling. The most severe injuries incurred by falling include back strains and trauma to the head. Falls can also lead to:
- Sprains and ligament strains
- Compression fractures
- Broken hips, wrists, ankles, and shins
- Concussions
Shoveling or blowing snow off of pathways is the first step in preventing falls. Unfortunately, the residual snow can quickly turn to ice, making fall hazards worse. That’s why many choose to apply deicer or materials for extra traction, such as sand or kitty litter can help.
Preventing Injuries Caused by Falling Snow and Ice
When temperatures rise and fall throughout the winter, icicles can form on roof lines. These are dangerous, especially to pets and children, as these sharp and heavy ice pieces can fall at any time, striking whoever is below it.
Keeping roof lines clear of snow and ice will prevent this kind of injury from happening.
Remove Snow and Ice and Prevent Property Damage
If snow and ice are allowed to stay on roofs for the entirety of winter, the chances are that ice dams will form, and water will leak through the ceiling and into your home. Water damage to your walls and structural deterioration is caused by rotting rafters and beams compromising your home’s safety.
As snow continues to build on your roof through the winter, it must be either shoveled or raked off to avert leaks and structural damage.
Ice and Snow Removal
Removing ice and snow by yourself can also be a safety hazard if not done correctly. Rather than take chances that could result in further injury, hire professional snow removing services. Here at Moyer Lawncare & Landscaping, we provide ice and snow removal to keep your family safe and dry and so you won’t be slowed down by whatever the winter weather brings. Get a free estimate today!