Make Your Workplace Safe for Everyone this Holiday Season
The John Petropoulos Memorial Fund (JPMF) is reminding business owners to keep their workplaces safe over the holiday season. At this time of year, many organizations add decorations and undergo changes in an effort to get into the spirit of the season.
“We applaud this festive spirit, but we want to remind businesses to make sure their workplaces are safe for employees, visitors and emergency responders who may need to attend during non-business hours,” said JPMF Managing Director Ian Wilson.
“Many businesses are closed for several days or even weeks over the holiday season, so it’s important to look at workplaces from the perspective of emergency services workers who may have to respond to unfamiliar surroundings in poor lighting and under stressful circumstances.”
Make sure safety railings are in place, grates and open holes are covered, broken glass and sharp objects are removed, hallways and emergency exits are not obstructed, security alarm systems are working and consider leaving some sort of inside lighting on overnight. For more tips, go to the safety section of the JPMF’s website.
Meanwhile, because emergency responders also call roads their workplace, the JPMF is urging motorists to slow down when passing emergency vehicles. Facing adverse weather conditions, increased traffic and the potential for more impaired drivers on Alberta roads, this can be an especially challenging time of year for emergency services personnel, so we hope that you’ll watch out for them this festive season. Here are some traffic safety tips motorists should follow:
1) Slow down - motorists must slow down to 60 km/hr, or less if the posted speed is lower, when passing emergency vehicles or tow trucks that are stopped with their lights flashing.
2) Yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles - when they approach with sirens sounding, immediately move clear of the intersection or pull over to the right side of the two-way roadway. Once out of the way, stop until the emergency vehicle has passed and check that no other emergency vehicles are approaching.
3) Do not follow within 150 metres of any emergency vehicle that has its siren or lights operating.
4) Check your rear-view mirror regularly.
For more information, go to www.jpmf.ca or contact:
Ian Wilson
Managing Director
John Petropoulos Memorial Fund
403-891-4269
