If you have spent even a single winter in Newfoundland and Labrador, you know there is no such thing as a “typical” day. One morning can bring blue skies and calm roads, and by the afternoon you are dealing with whiteout conditions, ice pellets, or high winds that seem to come from every direction at once.
Winter here demands preparation, patience, and the right tools. At Dicks and Company Basics, we have been serving Newfoundland and Labrador businesses since 1840, and one thing has never changed. When winter hits, safety and preparedness matter.
Why Winter Safety Deserves Extra Attention
Winter conditions affect more than just your commute. They impact productivity, employee safety, deliveries, and even customer experience. Slips and falls increase during icy conditions, power outages become more likely, and delayed shipments can disrupt daily operations. For businesses, especially those with staff on site, customers visiting, or delivery schedules to maintain, winter safety planning is not optional. It is essential.
Creating a Safer Workplace During Winter
A safe winter workplace starts with awareness and preparation. Clear walkways, proper signage, and reliable supplies can make a significant difference. Some simple but effective steps include:
Supporting Staff Through Winter Challenges
Winter in our province often brings unpredictable travel conditions, especially for those commuting early mornings or covering long distances. Employers who plan ahead for winter operations can help reduce risk and uncertainty for their teams. This can include reviewing safety procedures, allowing flexibility in scheduling where feasible, and clearly communicating expectations during storms, delays, or closures. When employees know there is a plan in place, it supports both safety and confidence, even in challenging conditions.
Staying Ahead of Disruptions
Winter also has a way of exposing small gaps in preparedness. Storms, road conditions, and supplier delays can all make it harder to get what you need when you need it. One practical step is regularly checking stock levels for everyday essentials, especially items that are used consistently such as paper products, cleaning supplies, and safety materials. A quick review before major weather systems arrive can help prevent avoidable shortages during an already demanding season. As a locally based supplier with inventory on hand, Dicks and Company Basics helps reduce that pressure by offering free same day delivery within our service areas. For many businesses, knowing there is a local option that can respond quickly provides added flexibility when weather conditions change plans or disrupt schedules. Winter preparation is not about overstocking. It is about having reliable, local support in place so day to day operations are easier to manage when conditions outside are less predictable.
Community, Experience, and Preparedness
Erratic weather has always been part of life in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our communities are resilient because we plan ahead, help each other, and rely on trusted local partners who understand what our weather here really looks like. At Dicks and Company Basics, our commitment goes beyond products. It is about supporting workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, and home offices through every season, especially the toughest ones. As winter continues, stay safe, stay prepared, and know that local support makes a difference when conditions are at their worst.
