Home > Blog > Winter Safety Reminders

Winter Safety Reminders

Posted by: at 7:20 AM on October 28th, 2019

Carbon Monoxide Hazard

December and January are peak times for carbon monoxide poisoning. More fuel-heating appliances are in use during the winter, and people are more likely to start their cars in the garage to warm them before getting in to face the cold. These conditions are prime environments for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Those persons who use oil, propane or natural gas to heat their homes should ensure their heating system is properly cleaned. If not, there is a chance carbon monoxide could seep into your home. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can seep through walls, door frames and window casings. Likewise, if you start your car in the garage to warm it before heading out, make sure a window or door is open to outside to let the fumes dissipate.

We encourage everyone to purchase a CO detector to alert them if there is a CO leak in their home. Remember to:

  • Replace the battery in your CO detector.

  • Open the garage door if and while you heat your car up in the garage.

Slip and Fall Hazards

Slip and fall incidents injure thousands of Americans every year. There is arguably an increased risk during the winter months because of slick, icy sidewalks and roads.  Plan ahead when traveling in poor winter conditions.  At home, make sure your sidwalks and paths are properly shoveled and salted.   Ensure that you have proper footwear with non skid soles..

Hot Water Burns

The inside of you home poses another threat: baths/showers. During the winter months, an allure of a hot bath or shower is as potent as ever. Likewise, it is as dangerous as ever: at least 3,800 injuries occur annually from scalding or excessively hot tap water. Children under five and the elderly are particularly at risk for these accidents.  Reduce your risk for hot water burns by adjusting the temperature setting of your hot water heater to 120 or lower.  You can also install an anti-scald faucets.

In all of the above conditions, an injury can happen because of your own negligence, but it can also happen because of someone else’s negligence. For instance, the carbon monoxide detector. you just bought may not operate properly due to design, or a neighbor may not have cleared off ice as he or she should have and you slip and get injured.  If you or a loved one suffer a personal injury under circumstances beyond your control, give us a call.  For over 40 eyars we have fought to ensure our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve!