Springtime is here, but this year, it’s a bit different. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic that has swept America, springtime and spring break have an ominous tone. No longer is it about being outside and visiting the beach, but rather has become focused on preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

While springtime is different this year from years past, prioritizing safety should still be at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Below, you’ll find five tips to enhance safety inside, outdoors, or wherever you find yourself this spring.

Plan Your Spring Cleaning

Many Americans look to spring as a new beginning, which often includes cleaning out their home and tackling DIY projects. Before you begin any work on your home, ensure you have a spring cleaning safety checklist to help you through your tasks: a checklist can help you stay organized and point out things you may have overlooked, such as cleaning your carbon monoxide detector and replacing the batteries in a smoke detector.

It is also important to properly read cleaning labels before using the product to ensure chemicals are non-toxic and safe for your loved ones and pets. 

Watch for Slick Surfaces and Flooring

While April showers may bring May flowers, they can also bring an unexpected personal injury. Use caution for any home surfaces that may have become slick due to the rain, including stairs, ramps, and outdoor areas. 

If you venture outside your home, always scan an area before you walk, especially if there has been rain. Broken bones, head injuries, bruises, and spinal cord injuries are just some of the consequences of a slip and fall accident note the slip and fall lawyers at Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers. If a slip and fall accident occurred on business’ property, you may be able to recover compensation.

Inspect Your Car

Wintertime can wreak havoc on a car, especially on the tires. To ensure your car is in good working order, consider taking it to a local mechanic or inspect it yourself to ensure everything is functioning properly. Check your lights, tire pressure, and replace your windshield wipers. Always keep an eye out when on the road as new potholes, animals, and rain are all springtime driving dangers.

Use Safety Gear

Safety gear can help prevent injuries before they happen! If you or your loved ones plan on biking, rollerblading, hiking, or participating in any outdoor activity, it’s important to use proper protective gear. Always opt for helmets and proper-fitting shoes. Sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays should be used everyday, in both sunny and cloudy weather to prevent skin damage. 

Make an Emergency Plan

Springtime is a great time to go over emergency safety plans with your family or roommates. Ensure you have adequate food and water for yourself and others, including animals, and ample medication. A proper disaster supply kit should have at least three-days worth of food and clean drinking water, a flashlight, first aid kit, and extra batteries. 

Making a plan can help reduce feelings of stress or anxiety, especially given the current situation with the outbreak of the coronavirus.

Safety for Spring

As seasons change, so do the hazards they bring. This Spring, continue to make safety a priority. By planning your spring cleaning, watching for slippery surfaces, inspecting your car, using safety gear, and making an emergency plan, you can continue to keep you and your loved ones safe this season.