Winter Safety Reminders

As we head into the winter season, we want to share a few important reminders to help you stay informed and prepared in the event of inclement weather. Being prepared helps ensure your safety and well-being during emergencies. Thank you for taking the time to plan ahead.

  1. Essential Staff
    All direct care employees are considered essential staff and can travel to work during driving bans. If there is a snow event, you are expected to report to work. Staff may be reassigned based on weather or staffing needs- your supervisor will notify you if needed elsewhere.
  2. People Supported in Residential
    Please ensure that all people supported have proper winter clothing-boots, coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. No one should go without these items- contact your Residential Assistant Director for assistance.
  3. Residential Staff Preparation
    Residential staff should prepare for travel delays or being stuck at a site due to inclement weather. Keep water, snacks, a change of clothes, medications, and hygiene items on hand in case you can’t leave.
  4. Plowing and Shoveling
    The agency’s snowplow service clears and salts walkways after 2 inches of snow falls. Each site has shovels and salt; staff must shovel when less than 2 inches accumulate, even over multiple days. Salt adds traction but doesn’t replace shoveling. Paths to safe areas must remain clear.
  5. Closures
    If a Day Program or office building closes, updates will be shared promptly via: -Local news stations 2,4,7 -Employee Portal  -Therap Mailbox [email protected] -Agency social media
  6. Office-based Staff Preparation
    We recommend keeping a 3-day supply of water, nonperishable food items, and blanket in your office or vehicle in case of emergencies.
  7. Emergency Kits
    Emergency kits are at all sites. The agency provides food, water, and blankets for DSPs and individuals, not office staff. Encourage people served living independently to stock up on essentials and prepare their own kits.
  8. Travel Safety
    Monitor weather conditions before commuting and allow extra time for travel when conditions are poor.