Although Wiarton Willie called an early spring, slip and falls due to winter's outdoor hazards continue to pose safety risks for homeowners and visitors alike. According to Brain Injury Canada, over 160,000 Canadians sustain brain injuries every year. Some of these are caused by slip and fall accidents. By keeping our properties safe, we can reduce the risk and avoid preventable accidents for our loved ones, neighbours and visitors.
Home-owners' Duty Of Care
Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe. This means taking reasonable measures to protect against dangers that you know of or ought to have known about. The concept may be a familiar one for office buildings, shopping malls, and municipal property, but the obligation also applies to private homes.
Many homeowners may be diligent about maintaining their properties when expecting guests, but the duty of care extends also toward individuals who visit your property uninvited. These may include workers who deliver mail or packages, read energy meters or even engage in unsolicited door-to-door sales.
Each municipality has its own rules, but many of them require homeowners to clear snow and ice around their properties within hours of a snowfall. So, make sure to put your shovel to good use. In most municipalities, you are expected to keep the sidewalk in front of your property clear of snow, even if city plows come through later. Keep ice melt on hand and pay special attention to steps.
Pedestrians: Keep Alert And Take Extra Care
While property owners have a legal duty of care, pedestrians and visitors also have their own reasonable obligation to prevent accidents and avoid injury. Be observant and watch where you step. Remember that even a thin layer of snow can sometimes hide ice or damaged pavement. Make sure to wear weather-appropriate footwear with sufficient tread.
If we all stay vigilant and keep safety at the forefront, we can all look forward to enjoying the rest of the winter season.
Last thoughts...
"WIARTON WILLIE sees no shadow in sight
... it will be an early spring! Will his prediction be right?"
a town crier then called out.
--The Canadian Press, Feb. 2, 2017
An early Spring.. why does it matter? Ask a person with disabilities about the challenges they face navigating winter, slush, ice and snow for 6 more weeks? It matters. #perspective
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