Did you know that over the past five years, KACo members submitted more than 2,200 slip and fall insurance claims, costing more than $20 million?
As most of Kentucky recovers from the first major storm of the year and prepares for more snow over the weekend, KACo encourages county officials to keep these safety tips in mind to protect your staff and residents.
Monitor weather forecast:
- Plan to alert staff of winter weather plans.
- Proper winter weather gear is needed for staff.
- Implement a plan for parking lot and sidewalk snow removal.
- Mitigate slip, trip and fall events by clearing walkways as soon as feasible including staff and public entrances.
- Be prepared for when ice melts and potentially freezes again. Have shovels and ice treatment materials in stock and handy.
- Make sure doormats are placed at all entrances.
- Post wet floor signage.
- Walk around your facilities. Post signs and barriers for areas not yet cleared of snow/ice.
Tips for staff safety:
- Walk slowly and carefully. Wear boots or another slip-resistant footwear.
- Use special care when getting in and out of vehicles. Use the vehicle for support if you needed.
- Watch for slippery floors when you enter any building or home.
- Try to avoid carrying items or walking with your hands in pockets, which can reduce your ability to catch yourself if you lose your balance. Instead, carry a backpack if you have one.
- Watch out for black ice.
- Tap your foot on potentially slick areas to see if the areas are slippery.
- Walk as flat-footed as possible in slick areas.
- Avoid uneven surfaces if possible. Avoid steps or curbs with ice on them.
- Report any untreated surfaces to maintenance and facilities personnel.
