As winter settles in, snow and ice can make school grounds a tricky place to navigate. For school administrators and staff, ensuring the safety of students, employees, and visitors is a top priority. Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of school-related injuries during the colder months, but with proactive planning and simple precautions, you can minimize risks.
Here are nine practical tips to help your school stay safe this winter:
1. Assess your grounds regularly
Conduct frequent inspections of your school’s outdoor walkways, parking lots, and entryways. Look for hazards such as:
- Uneven pavement
- Ice patches
- Poorly drained areas where water can refreeze overnight
Address these issues promptly to reduce risks. A scheduled maintenance plan can help you stay ahead of potential dangers.
2. Implement a snow and ice management plan
Snow and ice can quickly accumulate and create hazardous conditions. A well-organized management plan should include:
- Early and consistent snow maintenance: Clear snow before it becomes compacted and icy
- Strategic salting and sanding: Apply de-icing materials to walkways and parking lots, especially in high-traffic areas
- Dedicated snow maintenance teams: Assign responsibility to ensure timely action
3. Use entrance mats effectively
Slippery floors at entry points are a common winter hazard, but the right mats can make all the difference. To create a safer and cleaner environment, implement a three-layer matting system:
- Outside scraper mats: These durable mats remove dirt, snow, and ice before it even gets inside. Designed with an open weave for drainage, they prevent water buildup. Use mats with beveled edges to minimize tripping hazards, and a size like 4x6 feet ensures easy placement and snow clearance.
- Transition mats: Just inside the door, these high-performance mats pull double duty. Their raised surface absorbs moisture and traps debris below, with a raised edge to contain water. Aim for mats that cover the width of entry doors and extend at least 10 feet for maximum effectiveness.
- Wiper mats: Install absorbent mats further inside to ensure shoes are dry before hitting other flooring
This layered approach helps:
- Reduce water tracked indoors
- Provide a safe surface for wet shoes
- Minimize the need for constant mopping
Be sure to regularly clean and replace mats to maintain their effectiveness throughout the season.
4. Improve lighting around the campus
Visibility can be reduced during winter’s shorter days. Well-lit walkways, parking lots, and entryways help:
- Highlight icy patches or obstacles
- Direct pedestrians to the safest routes
- Reduce the chance of accidents during early morning and evening hours
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting for better brightness and lower utility costs.
5. Encourage safe footwear
Remind students and staff to wear winter-appropriate footwear. Shoes with good traction and waterproofing can significantly lower the risk of slips. Regularly communicate this message through:
- School newsletters
- Morning announcements
- Signage around the campus
6. Train staff on hazard awareness
Equip your staff with the knowledge to identify and address hazards promptly. Training topics can include:
- Spotting and reporting ice hazards
- Proper techniques for spreading salt or sand
- Safe practices for assisting someone who has fallen
7. Post clear signage
Place warning signs or cones in areas prone to slipperiness or under maintenance. Portable signs such as “Caution: Wet Floor” can make a big difference in alerting people to potential risks.
8. Monitor indoor surfaces
Snow and ice brought indoors can create slick hallways and stairwells. To reduce the risk:
- Mop up wet areas promptly
- Use slip-resistant floor treatments
- Place warning signs near wet spots
9. Review your incident response plan
Accidents may still happen despite precautions. Prepare your school by:
- Keeping first-aid kits fully stocked
- Training staff in first aid and incident reporting
- Documenting every incident thoroughly to improve future safety measures
A safer school starts with you
Taking these steps can go a long way in preventing slips, trips, and falls this winter. By being proactive and vigilant, your school can create a safer environment for everyone—even when conditions outside are less than ideal. After all, a secure and welcoming campus is one of the best ways to support learning and growth.