Tag Archives: winter defense

Staying Healthy and Happy During the Holiday Season

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This entry is part of 6 in the series Health & Wellness

While the holidays are a time to indulge in some sweet treats while surrounded by loved ones, it’s common for many people to gain unwanted weight throughout that time. So, how can you enjoy these salivating treats, while staying healthy during the holidays? The key is moderation. You do not have to say no to these temptations, but do indulge conservatively. Instead of waiting for the buffet lunch or dinner, keep eating normal, balanced meals throughout the day. (more…)

Snowblower Safety: Tips to Keep You Safe When Dealing with Snow

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This entry is part 11 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Snow season is upon us and it’s time to dust off the snow blowers once again. Each year, thousands of people suffer serious injuries to their hands, fingers, and backs due to the improper handling of snowblowers. Injuries typically occur when the snow is heavy, wet or has accumulated several inches. Below are some basic safety tips to keep you and others from being injured. (more…)

How To Prevent Slipping on Ice This Winter

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This entry is part 12 of 13 in the series Slips, Trips & Falls

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014 there were 34,860 workplace slip and fall injuries involving ice, sleet or snow that required at least one day away from work to recuperate.  At Society Insurance, the number one loss source for both workers compensation and liability claims are slips and falls.

There are important steps both employees and employers can take to mitigate the risks of walking on ice. (more…)

Walk Safely on Ice (Like a Penguin)

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This entry is part 1 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Just one bad fall on ice can have long-term consequences. Pay attention to the weather and stay inside to avoid icy hazards when you can. When you do venture out, walking in winter requires special attention to avoid slipping and falling. Slips and falls are the number one source of loss for Society Insurance policyholders.

No matter how well the snow and ice is cleared from parking lots or sidewalks, customers and employees may still encounter some slippery surfaces. It is important for everyone to be constantly aware of these dangers.

Consider these tips: (more…)

10 Tips for Winter Travel

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This entry is part 9 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Winter is upon us – or very close depending on your tolerance for our current weather. Although most of us like to think we’re pros at traveling in winter weather, it’s never too late for a brief reminder with some tips on how to make sure we arrive at our destination safely.  (more…)

What to Pack in Your Roadside Emergency Kit

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This entry is part 8 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Winter driving can be hazardous. Although not expected, there may be a time when your vehicle does becomes stranded. This is an emergency situation. Hopefully you have your roadside emergency kit packed in your vehicle and ready to help you.

The National Safety Council recommends having these items in your vehicle at all times: (more…)

Prepare for Hazardous Winter Travel

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This entry is part 5 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Over the past three weeks, I have shared recommendations to protect your business, employees and customers in a four-part Winter Defense series. In this final edition, I address ways to prepare for winter driving. If you’ve missed the other Winter Defense topics, check out Dress to Protect, Recognize Dangerous Symptoms, and Protect your Business from Slips and Falls.

As we all know, winter driving can be hazardous. It requires extra planning and precautions, but can also be unpredictable with surprise snow totals, drifting, black ice or emergency closures. (more…)

Protect Your Business from Winter Slips & Falls

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This entry is part 4 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

In part three of this four-week Winter Defense Series, I provide suggestions to protect your business from the leading cause of loss — slips and falls. If you missed the other ways you can keep yourself and your business safe this winter, check out Dress to Protect with clothing and layering suggestions, as well as Recognizing Dangerous Symptoms, which identifies warning signs and first aid for frostbite and hypothermia.

Slips and falls can happen anytime and anywhere, but the likelihood increases in winter due to snow and ice build-up outdoors and slush and water being tracked into buildings. A Society Insurance study of restaurant and tavern losses found slips and falls were the leading source of customer injury. A national study found slips and falls were the second-leading cause of employee injury, increasing 41 percent since 1998! (more…)

Recognize Dangerous Warning Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia

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This entry is part 3 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

Last week, I provided recommendations on how to dress to stay protected from the bitter elements. In part two of this four-week Winter Defense series, I identify the dangerous warning signs to watch for when exposed to cold temperatures.

Frostbite and hypothermia are the most common hazards for those working or playing in cold weather conditions. These risks can be dangerous, and even deadly. Knowing the symptoms and how to treat them can keep problems that do occur from becoming a disaster. (more…)

It’s Cold Outside: Dress to Protect

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This entry is part 2 of 11 in the series Winter Defense

The harsh weather conditions in January — cold winds, snow and ice — are a regular reminder that winter is here for a while in the Midwest. Over the next four weeks, I will share the best ways to protect your business, employees and customers in a four-part Winter Defense series.

Work doesn’t stop just because it’s cold outside. Many will still be working outside throughout the winter, and protection against winter hazards such as frostbite and hypothermia is crucial. (more…)