Winter may seem far away with the summer sun shining bright, but now is the perfect time to prepare your commercial property for the colder months ahead! Planning now can help you avoid slips and falls, and business closures, and ensure safe access for customers and employees when snow starts to fall. Take the time to assess your property’s winter needs, observe possible risks, conduct maintenance, and begin thinking about your Snow Plan.
Property Overview
The first step in preparing for winter is to conduct a thorough property overview. Identifying high-risk areas now can prevent hazards later. Key areas to inspect include:
Parking lots, sidewalks, and entrances: Check for cracks in pavement, potholes, and uneven surfaces that can become freezing puddles or slip hazards when covered in snow or ice.
ADA Access: Ensure all accessible routes are in good condition and free of obstacles. Repair any damaged paths, handrails, or ramps.
Pavement condition: Look for wear and tear that can worsen in winter conditions. Also, consider your pavement type and the best ice melt to use.
Sewers and Drainage: Clear any blockages to prevent water from freezing.
Roofs and Gutters: Ensure they are intact and clean to handle snow loads and prevent ice dams.
Building Insulation: Observe your building’s insulation condition to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.
Broken Curbs: Repair curbs to prevent tripping hazards, ensure clear snow removal paths, and prevent damage to snow equipment.
Conducting Maintenance
Summer provides the perfect conditions for property maintenance. With lower foot traffic and favorable weather, it’s easier to schedule and perform essential upkeep tasks. Always keep winter in mind as you address:
- Windows and door seals
- HVAC and generators
- Roofs
- Drainage systems
- Pipes
Landscape Condition
It’s also important to conduct an overview of your landscape to tackle unique risks before the season begins:
Landscaping Structures: Ensure they are secure and won’t become hazards under heavy snow and storms.
Plants and Groundcovers: Trim and clear any that could block pathways or entrances. Look for low-hanging branches and overgrown shrubs.
Debris and Roots: Clear away any debris and check for roots that could cause tripping hazards when buried under snow.
Hiring a team of snow removal and landscape experts is an easy way to check everything off the list, from landscape maintenance, to pre-season site walks!
Your Snow Plan
Winter is the last thing we want to think about when the high is 80 degrees, but now is the best time to develop a comprehensive snow plan, well before the first flake falls. Winters in the PNW can be unpredictable, so being prepared is crucial. If you don’t already have a plan, start now by considering the following:
An Expert Snow Team – Determine who will be responsible for shoveling, plowing, and deicing your property. Will you hire professionals to manage these tasks, allowing you to focus on your other priorities without worry?
Priority Areas – Identify any unique features of your property that require special care and attention. Decide which areas need focused snow removal and where the snow should be relocated to ensure safety and accessibility.
Walkways – Ensure your facility has clear and safe paths for pedestrians. Regularly assess and maintain walkways to prevent hazards and ensure smooth access.
Closures – Establish a protocol for potential business closures due to severe weather. Develop a clear communication plan to inform employees and customers about closures and alternative arrangements. Ensure your facility remains accessible and safe for everyone during inclement weather with an outlined plan of accessible entryways, parking lot zones, and marked pedestrian paths.
Create a detailed timeline that includes the time of day, frequency of snow removal, and emergency situations. Additionally, schedule a pre-season site inspection with snow experts to address any hazards on your property before they become an issue. A clear communication plan is also essential to keep your team and clients informed of your snow removal strategies and any potential disruptions.
Investing for a Safer Snow Season
Preparing for winter during the summer months is a proactive investment in your business. A well-crafted snow plan helps protect against injuries and liability, ensuring your operations run smoothly even during harsh winter weather. Don’t wait until the first freeze—start planning now to keep your commercial property safe and accessible all winter long.
Ready to get started? Learn more about MSNW Winter Services and how we can help you prepare for the winter season!