At this time of year, when temperatures are still hovering around freezing, we need to be vigilant regarding potential slips and falls. A fresh snowfall after a day of above freezing temperatures can obscure underlying icy patches.
When moving households or into a storage unit, check your footing before exiting your vehicle and stepping outside. You may not always be able to see exactly where you are placing your feet when carrying or moving boxes. Move slowly and wear good footwear. Non-slip footwear is an advantage, but it is not always foolproof.
When you walk through parking lots and on sidewalks that may be icy, you should walk like a penguin. It works! Alberta Health Services describes how to walk like a penguin as follows:
Bend slightly and walk flat-footed
Point your feet out slightly like a penguin
Keep your center of gravity over your feet as much as possible
Watch where you are stepping
Take shorter, shuffle-like steps
Keep your arms at your sides (not in your pockets)
Concentrate on keeping your balance
Go S-L-O-W-L-Y
Use handrails wherever available, especially when walking on sloped surfaces or stairs. Avoid obvious slippery surfaces when possible.
Recovering from a slip and fall can damper your work life and winter fun.
Take your time and stay healthy.
Before moving day, check the weather forecast. If bad weather is expected, consider rescheduling your move if you can. Planning ahead will help you avoid dangerous situations and better prepare for snow or icy conditions.
1) Dress Appropriately
Make sure everyone involved in the move is dressed for the weather. Choose warm, functional clothing, and layering works best. Waterproof boots with good traction are crucial for keeping your feet warm and helping you grip slippery surfaces. Don't forget to wear gloves to keep your hands warm while allowing for movement.
2) Keep Pathways Clear for Safe Winter Moving
Clear pathways, driveways, and entryways before moving boxes in and out. Remove snow and ice using a shovel or ice melt. Ask the self-storage facility if they offer snow clearance services.
3) Use Non-Slip Mats
Use Non-Slip Mats if your self-storage facility allows, place non-slip mats at entrances and common areas to provide extra traction where snow and ice are likely to accumulate. These mats can significantly reduce the risk of slips as you walk with heavy loads.
4) Move Slowly and Steadily
To avoid accidents, take your time when carrying boxes or furniture. Rushing can make you lose your footing. Keep your center of gravity low and use both hands for balance. If the load is heavy, get help. It's safer to move slowly than to rush and risk getting hurt.
5) Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings Keep an eye on the ground as you walk and stay aware of potentially hazardous spots such as icy patches or uneven surfaces. Be sure to communicate with others about where you are walking and where others may be approaching, especially if they are carrying heavy items.
6) Secure Heavy Items
When loading your vehicle or moving items into a storage unit, secure boxes or heavy items properly. Avoid stacking too many boxes on top of each other. This can cause them to fall and lead to accidents on slick surfaces.
7) Use Proper Lifting Techniques
When you lift heavy boxes or furniture, bend your knees and use your legs, not your back. Keeping your body straight helps you stay balanced and avoid getting hurt, especially when walking on ice.
8) Keep A First Aid Kit Close By
It's a good idea to have a first aid kit ready when you move. If you trip or fall, you will have what you need to treat minor injuries and get the necessary help.
Moving in winter can be more complicated than in other seasons, but if you prepare well and stay safe, you can lower the chances of slipping and falling. Planning and being careful can make your move easier and safer. Always remember to prioritize safety and be cautious with each step!
In Alberta, winter brings a higher risk of slips and falls. At Elite Self Storage, we dedicate ourselves to making your moving experience as smooth and safe as possible. That’s why we provide snow removal services all year round—yes, you read that right! If you know Alberta’s weather, you know how important it is to have safe, slip-free access to your storage unit.
Our parking lot is fully paved, with sandboxes to help improve safety during icy conditions. These small steps go a long way in keeping everyone safe.
Winter weather in Alberta can change in the blink of an eye. Clear days can quickly turn into icy ones, with hidden black ice creating dangerous situations. To stay safe, walk slowly and watch your step. We're committed to keeping our parking lot safe so you can move around with peace of mind.
We work hard to keep our facility snow-free so you can safely access your storage unit anytime.
Whether you're storing personal belongings, household items, or business inventory, Elite Self Storage has you covered year-round. Our team is here to ensure your experience is stress-free, no matter the season. Visit one of our convenient locations in St. Albert, Edmonton North, or Edmonton South, and let us help you find the perfect storage solution for your needs. Stay safe, stay organized, and let us take care of the rest!
Check our our storage unit size guide or all one of our storage rental experts today 780-347-0433
