MAINTENANCE
It’s Never Too Early to Think About Winter by Shawn Russell, Service Supervisor, Ashton Creek Farms
It is that time of year again and temps are in
removable linings are needed. It does us no
the 90s, so you know what that means…yep,
good if we cannot do our jobs if we are sick from
let’s talk about winter snow removal! You should
hypothermia. I always carry an extra pair of socks
make sure to have plenty of ice melt on hand.
with me. It makes me feel like I am a new man,
Vendors do a very good job letting us know when
changing my socks after putting ice melt out!
they have sales or there may be a shortage. Also,
Shoes should have good treads when we are
make sure you have contact information for snow
working in the ice and snow.
removal vendors in case it gets too bad on us this
Always talk with team members about the
year. When I spread the ice melt, I use a seed spreader. It covers the sidewalks and breezeways more evenly than just tossing it by hand. One item we tend to forget is snow blindness from the sun reflecting on that fresh snow. So remember to wear shades, even if it is walking from your vehicle to the office, shop, or resident’s home.
preventive work orders. Winterizing sprinkler systems, putting heaters in riser rooms and covers on water spigots, and having the pool winterized should be done in a timely manner. We should put up freeze warning signs and warnings to keep taps running for the residents. Lights need to be checked as well. With the daylight
Speaking of eyes, we also need to keep in mind
hours being short, timers and sensors should be
our heads and ears. Heat escapes mainly through
in working order. Replace or change lights that
our heads, so cover your noggin! Trapper hats
are out.
work better at protecting our necks and ears,
I hope these things help out. Remember, safety
but beanie caps work as well. Layers are also a good idea. Jackets, either heavy or light, with
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first when dealing with ice and snow.
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