Winter Safety

Stay Safe, Prepared, and Informed

Snow, ice, and reduced visibility can create hazardous conditions both on campus and while travelling. All university community members are urged to plan ahead, use caution, and follow safety advice at all times.

Your Safety Comes First

To help prevent slips, falls, and travel-related incidents, please follow these important safety reminders:

  • Use only cleared and maintained entrances, sidewalks, and pathways. Avoid shortcuts, snow-covered areas, or unmaintained routes.

  • Wear winter-appropriate footwear with good traction and dress for the conditions.

  • Leave yourself plenty of time to get to your class, meeting or car/bus, and avoid rushing.

  • Use extra caution in parking lots and on sidewalks, as fresh snow can conceal ice.

  • When conditions are uncertain, use the closest cleared building entrance.

For more information on Snow Removal and other facility concerns, contact Physical Plant.

 

Driving Safety Tips:

  • Drive slowly and allow extra stopping distance.

  • Turn on headlights to improve visibility.

  • Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving.

  • Watch for pedestrians, snowplows, and other vehicles.

 

Reporting Hazards

Report any safety concerns right away. That way, we can help keep everyone safe. Find the reporting method for your campus below:

 

If You Experience a Slip or Fall

If you experience a slip, trip, or fall on campus—even if no injury is immediately apparent—please report the incident as soon as possible using Lakehead University’s online Incident Report Form. Timely reporting helps ensure appropriate follow-up, hazard mitigation, and support where needed.

The Incident Report Form can be accessed:

 

Be Prepared:

Consider keeping a winter survival kit in your vehicle, including:

  • Phone charger

  • Water and non-perishable food

  • Flashlight

  • Blanket and warm clothing

  • Jumper cables

  • Shovel

  • Traction mats or sand

  • Candles and matches or a lighter

  • Snow brush and ice scraper

 

Cancellations and Campus Closures

The University closely monitors winter weather and road conditions across our regions. Decisions to cancel in-person classes or exams, or to close campus (except for required services), will be communicated through:

  • The MobileSafety App (push notifications)

  • Lakehead email accounts

  • Alert banner on the lakeheadu.ca website

  • The Bulletin

  • Lakehead University social media (Facebook and Instagram stories)

  • Local media outlets

  • Direction from your immediate supervisor (where applicable)

We strongly encourage all community members to download the MobileSafety App (available in the Apple Store and Google Play) and enable push notifications under About / Preferences.

For more information on campus closures, please review the Campus Closure/Class Cancellation Policy.

 

Attendance, Work, and Academic Considerations

Winter conditions can vary significantly by location. Please use your best judgment and prioritize personal safety.

  • Employees who are unable to attend work or expect to be late due to weather must notify their immediate supervisor as soon as possible. In discussion with their supervisor, options may include:

    • Working from home (in accordance with Alternate Work Arrangement Guidelines)

    • Making up lost work time through flexible hours

    • Using lieu time (where applicable)

    • Using vacation leave

    • Taking leave without pay

  • Students who are unable to travel safely should notify their professor or instructor as soon as possible to discuss alternative arrangements.

Employees are encouraged to review the Campus Closure/Class Cancellation Policy, which outlines expectations and entitlements, including provisions for units required to remain on campus during closures.

 

Additional Resources

For helpful winter preparedness tips for home and travel, visit:
Winter Storms – Get Prepared