4 minute read
Be safe this winter!
By Rachael Long, USAG Stuttgart Safety Manager
Fall and winter bring unique safety hazards. Some hazards – like winter driving – can vary based on location and severity. Other hazards arise from activities that occur at certain times of the year.
These activities, such as attending fests/Christmas markets, changing the clocks back, cooking or stringing holiday lights, can bring hazards that we all should take care to avoid.
Fest/Christmas Markets
Make a safety plan. Have a transportation plan, whether you're going with a designated driver, the train or a bus. Travel with a buddy and make sure you don't get separated. Establish meeting points in case of separation or emergency. Keep emergency numbers in mind: 110 for police and 112 for fire/medical emergency. Register with the AtHoc Mass Notification Warning System. Pace yourself throughout the events. Stay hydrated and drink alcohol responsibly!
Winter Tires
In Germany, remember “von O bis O” (from O to O) – which means October until Ostern (Easter). Winter tires are required to display the Alpine-Symbol (a 3-peak mountain with a snowflake in the center). Tires marked with M+S and produced prior to 2018, are still approved until Sept. 30, 2024. The law also apply to motorbikes, trucks and buses. Tread depth should be at least 1.6 millimeters required – best to have 4 millimeters. How to check? Place a one € coin in tread – should not be able to see golden edge.
Changing the Clocks/“Fall Back”
Daylight saving time for Central European Time (CET) ends on October 29th 2023. Use this time to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Purge medicine cabinets. Prepare winter emergency kits for vehicles.
WINTER CAR CARE KIT:
• Snow Brush w/Scraper
• Flashlight w/Batteries
• Blanket / Gloves / Socks / Hat
• Small Shovel
• Jumper Cables
• Hazard Triangle
• Reflective Safety Vest
• First Aid Kit with Two Face Masks
• Windshield Washer Fluid
• Snow Chain
Home Maintenance
If trimming branches, bushes, or other foliage – be sure to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Use caution on ladders. Pay attention to fire prevention. Check fire extinguishers. Develop and practice a fire escape plan. Consider adding fire escape ladders to higher floors.
Slips, Trips, Falls
Keep walking surfaces clean and dry. Use non-slip mats in entrance areas. When taking the stairs, be sure to use the handrails. Never rush and don’t skip stairs. Avoid distracted walking – put the phones away (no texting and walking). Stay focused on surroundings. Wear the proper footwear for the task.
Motorcycles
If riding this autumn, be sure your prepared for the ride! Wear PPE. Watch for more active wildlife. Beware of poor visibility – wear bright colors and reflective gear. Beware of traction surprises. Frost and leaves can be as slick as ice.
Holiday Cooking
Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking — keep an eye on the food. Keep floors clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags. Make sure smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button. Keep a fire extinguisher handy (out of cupboard). Ensure its charged and ready for emergencies. Have a home evacuation plan and be sure to discuss it with your guests.
Holiday Decorations
Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, or candles. Ensure the tree is not blocking an exit. Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use. Replace lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Turn off tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Winter Sports
Use suitable equipment, ensure it is in good condition. Take training or refresh skills as necessary. Stay on marked ski trails! Stay hydrated (avoid alcohol). Watch out for others – no earbuds/headphones. Ice skate in official areas only – no rivers, lakes or ponds. Supervise children while sledding. Avoid high traffic areas. Never pull a sled behind a vehicle.
