6 Tips to Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents and  Keep your Property Safe this Winter

Each municipality has different laws about when you must shovel your snow. Some cities have rules about where you can shovel your snow and where you can put it.

Check your municipalities’ website or call City Hall for information on their rules.

Avoid Fines by knowing when and where you can dispose of the snow

Most cities have bylaws on how long you have to clear your sidewalks and driveways after it snows. If you fail to shovel your sidewalks within the time the City has given, you could be fined. The City could come out and shovel your sidewalks and they will charge you for the service.

If you reside in a condo or apartment, your lease or condo bylaws may require you to clear the snow from the sidewalk leading up to your door and other areas. It is recommended that you understand your responsibilities that are written in the bylaws or your lease. Failing to clear the snow under your lease or condominium bylaws can lead to penalties.

Your Responsibilities to Visitors

As a property owner, you are responsible for making sure that everyone who comes onto your land stays safe. Talk to a city official to find out what responsibility you have under the local laws. You could be held liable if someone is injured on your property.

Tips on how to keep your Property safe

1. Snow Removal Strategy: Implement a proactive snow removal strategy. Regularly shovel and clear snow from walkways, driveways, and entrances. Promptly remove ice patches to maintain a safe walking surface.

2. Use of Salt or Ice Melt: Apply salt or ice melt on surfaces prone to ice formation. These substances help melt existing ice and prevent new ice from forming, providing an additional layer of safety.

3. Proper Lighting: Ensure that all pathways and entrances are well-lit. Adequate lighting helps individuals navigate safely, especially during early mornings or evenings when natural light is limited.

4. Handrails and Grab Bars: Install handrails and grab bars along pathways, especially on stairs and ramps. These provide additional support for individuals navigating slippery surfaces.

5. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your property, identifying and addressing potential hazards promptly. Keep an eye on areas prone to ice accumulation and prioritize their maintenance.

6. Snow Piles Management: If you pile up snow on your property, be strategic about its placement. Ensure that piles do not obstruct walkways or create additional hazards. Also, regularly inspect these piles for melting and refreezing.

If you are injured in a slip and fall accident call Limitless Law Group for a free consultation.