Slips and falls due to snow and ice are a leading cause of injuries and liability claims in schools. Seasonal hazards demand a clear, school-wide snow and ice plan. Below are recommended steps to keep students, staff, and visitors safe this winter.
Snow/Ice Removal Controls
- Ensure your district has a formal snow and ice removal plan covering building entrances, sidewalks, and parking lots.
- Before winter arrives, distribute snow- and ice-clearance equipment to each school.
- Monitor weather via local radio/TV and post school-closing updates promptly on your website.
- Define removal timeframes — prioritize main entrances first.
- Designate snow-storage zones for each facility (don’t block walkways or fire hydrants).
- If you use external contractors, secure written agreements plus certificates of insurance.
- Clearly mark fire hydrants and other critical fixtures so they remain accessible.
- Require grounds crews to wear PPE when operating snow-removal equipment.
- Encourage all school staff — especially those entering buildings — to wear slip-resistant shoes and keep a dry pair for indoor use.
Procedures
- Establish a daily log documenting conditions and treatments for entrances, sidewalks, and parking areas. This log helps with accountability and litigation defense.
- Clean and replace entrance mats or rugs regularly to reduce indoor slip hazards from tracked-in water.
- Review safety procedures with grounds staff often. Include “spot salting” for trouble areas like entrances, curves, and near stop signs.
Yes/And: Our Take
Yes, winter in Wisconsin is inevitable, and staying ahead of snow and ice removal practices is essential. And our take is that safety comes down to consistent execution — clear communication, documented procedures, proactive monitoring, and quick response to changing conditions. A well-defined plan only works when it’s actively followed throughout the day. Connect with your M3 Risk Manager to review your winter hazard strategy and strengthen your approach.
