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October Health and Safety Tips: Preparing for Fall & Staying Safe This Season


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As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, October is the perfect time to refocus on health and safety—both at work and at home. From slippery walkways to darker commutes and festive Halloween celebrations, this month brings unique seasonal risks.


At MSW Training and Consulting, we’re passionate about helping workplaces stay proactive and prepared through every season. Here are some key tips to keep your team safe and healthy this October.


🍁 1. Fall Weather Hazards

Autumn weather can be unpredictable, bringing wet leaves, cooler mornings, and shorter days. Keep these safety reminders in mind:

  • Watch for wet leaves: They can be just as slippery as ice. Keep walkways, driveways, and entrances clear.

  • Check lighting: As daylight hours shorten, ensure outdoor areas and parking lots are well-lit to reduce the risk of trips and falls.

  • Layer up wisely: If you’re working outdoors, dress in warm, breathable layers to adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.


🎃 2. Halloween Safety

Whether you’re celebrating at home, in the community, or at work, safety should be part of the fun:

  • Costume caution: Choose costumes that don’t drag on the ground or block vision.

  • Workplace decorations: Keep exits, sprinklers, and walkways clear. Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames.

  • Drive with care: Be extra alert during the evening of October 31—children will be out trick-or-treating, often wearing dark costumes.


🦠 3. Cold & Flu Season Begins

October marks the start of cold and flu season, so prevention is key:

  • Encourage vaccinations: It’s a great time to get a flu shot before the season peaks.

  • Reinforce hygiene habits: Promote regular handwashing, use of sanitizer, and staying home when sick.

  • Disinfect shared spaces: Clean high-touch surfaces like keyboards, phones, and doorknobs regularly.


🧤 4. Preparing for Winter

Before the first frost, take proactive steps to ensure a smooth and safe transition into winter:

  • Vehicle safety: Inspect tires, fluid levels, and emergency kits before temperatures drop.

  • Heating systems: Schedule maintenance for space heaters and HVAC units to prevent carbon monoxide or fire risks.

  • Slip prevention: Review your winter slip, trip, and fall prevention plans early—before the snow and ice arrive.


✅ October Safety Checklist

✔️ Clean up fallen leaves from walking areas

✔️ Inspect outdoor and hallway lighting

✔️ Encourage flu shots and review sick leave policies

✔️ Check heating and ventilation systems

✔️ Share Halloween safety reminders with staff and families



Final Word


October is a beautiful and busy month—but it also comes with hidden hazards. With a little planning and awareness, we can keep everyone safe, healthy, and ready to enjoy the season.


At MSW Training and Consulting, we’re here to help strengthen your workplace safety culture year-round. From seasonal awareness sessions to full Joint Health and Safety Committee training, we offer practical, compliant, and engaging safety solutions for every team.



Trust MSW Safety

 

You can trust MSW Safety to provide you with cost-effective training solutions tailored to meet your organization’s unique health and safety needs.

 

To ask to learn more, contact us online or call 1-877-488-3329. Visit us 24/7 on the web at mswsafety.ca 

 
 
 
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