Preparing for Winter Weather in Northern Michigan

Nov 12, 2014 | General

As personal injury attorneys, we see more than a few cases which relate either directly or indirectly to winter and often the weather. In an effort to promote safety for you and your family, we invite you to review 10 tips to consider while preparing for winter weather in Northern Michigan. Winter is already making itself known here in Northern Michigan, be sure you are prepared.

  1. Be careful when you walk – walkways and parking lots can be slippery. In addition, drivers unfamiliar with driving in snow and ice may have trouble stopping. Be attentive to others.
  2. Clean your heating systems – even in Northern Michigan most of us don’t need our heat in summer meaning parts may need some servicing before winter. Even if you have a fireplace, you should do maintenance before the winter season. Call a professional to service your heating system each season.
  3. Double check your smoke detectors and CO detectors – heating systems get a workout in Northern Michigan in winter. Be sure that you have double checked all batteries in your detectors and ensured that they are in working order.
  4. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle – if you do get in an accident during the winter or find yourself stranded, an emergency kit is important. Be sure it is filled with items to help you in case you are stranded for a period of time including blankets, water to drink, extra hats or coats, a flashlight, flares and a shovel.
  5. Service your vehicle – a well maintained vehicle is important for your safety and the safety of those around you. Be sure you have your vehicle serviced before winter. Keep fluids up, always wipe snow off your entire vehicle before you drive and be sure your tires have good tread before you hit the road this winter.
  6. Know how to drive – driving in winter requires extra attention as conditions may be difficult to spot or deteriorate quickly especially in the snowbelt. Maintain a safe distance from other cars, never use cruise control on wet or icy roads and slow down as weather conditions dictate.
  7. Know your responsibilities – depending on your city, you may or may not be required to clear your sidewalk. Know what your obligations as a business owner or homeowner are to avoid accidents.
  8. Get weather alerts to your smart phone – smart phones are a great way to stay informed and know when you should stay off the roads. Protect yourself and those around you by being aware of road conditions and staying off the roads when you are advised to do so. Many apps will provide you free access to warnings and alerts to conditions from the national weather service.
  9. Be careful when participating in winter sports – follow all rules – no matter what winter sport you participate in, it is important that you both know and follow all rules relating to the sport to avoid personal injuries to you and those around you. From skiing to snowmobiling, know before you go and be safe this season.
  10. Stay warm and enjoy the beauty of the season – when you go out, dress in layers and be sure to protect all visible skin. As long time residents or Northern Michigan, we know this time of the year is amazing. The region is famous for its popular winter festivals, well groomed snowmobile trails and ski trails and other fun activities. Be sure you are safe and enjoy your winters in Northern Michigan for years to come.

APKH&C are Northern Michigan Attorney’s serving clients in Northern Michigan since 1969. Committed to our clients we specialize in a number of legal services including personal injury law, social security disability and workman’s compensation claims. If you need help, contact APKH&C for your free consultation today by phone at 1.877.732.2491 or online.