Environment - Climate Change

December 22, 2023 Published by London and Area Chapter - By Trish Kaplan

Winter Safety on a Condominium Property

From the CCI Review 2023/2024-2 November 2023 issue of the CCI London Chapter

As temperatures plummet and more snow appears, remember that your neighbours may continue to take a walk at dawn, dusk or after dark, often with their pets in tow. Care should be taken by everyone in the community. Here are some safety practises that everyone can use and share:

Walkers

It is recommended that you suit up with reflective gear so drivers can see you, especially on properties where sidewalks are not available. Have a safety plan. Alert a family member or friend and give them the exact route you are taking and what time you plan to return. Carry your phone to alert them in the event something goes wrong or you don’t arrive at a specified time. Text them when you arrive home safe and sound.

Other suggestions for safety is to

• bring a friend;
• abide by nighttime safety rules which include: walk facing traffic so you can react quickly;
• always use sidewalks and off-road, multi-use paths when possible—stay off the street and bike lanes to avoid danger;
• keep your head up, looking for hazards 10-15 feet in front of you;
• avoid distractions, like your cell phone, so you can be more aware of surrounding;
• report lights out on the property to the manager/board

Drivers

Drivers should progress slowly through the property at all times, and especially during bad weather. Be reminded that the automatic headlight control in vehicles detect brightness outside the vehicle with an illuminance sensor which activates when light picked up by the sensor drops below a certain level. This does not activate because of snow or rain, so please use your headlights manually for safety while driving in these weather conditions.

Deliveries to the property

Folks continue to purchase goods online. Residents have complained about the speed the delivery vehicles use on the property. We know that everyone is anxious to receive their purchases; however, if your property is having problems in this area, it is recommended that the appropriate delivery company (as very often, it is the same driver), be advised to slow down when driving on the property. It is apparent the “Slow Down” signs that have been placed in some properties have no effect.

Renovations

Some of our owners will continue to do their DIYs in the community and delivery of product may be included. Owners may reminder delivery drivers on the importance of slowing down on the property when ordering. Reminders that owners should have the appropriate approvals from the corporation board, permits for renovations and to hire licensed professionals to carry out the work is also recommended

Helping to maintain safety on the property is everyone’s responsibility.

Trish Kaplan, CCI (Hon’s) is the parttime Administrator of the Chapter.; having served in the position from April 2003 to September 2010. She received the CCI Distinguished Service Award from CCI National in November 2006. Trish served as a director on the chapter board from 2010-2015 and was subsequently returned to the position of Administrator.

Trish is a condominium owner, served as a director in the corporation she resides in for a time and is a retired condominium manager.

Her experience in different areas of condominium continues to be a benefit to the chapter and its members.