While on campus, take a few extra seconds to review conditions and prepare yourself for the walk to your building or vehicle. Watch for slippery areas in parking lots, walks and building entrances where snow, ice or water can accumulate. A pair of boots with non-slip soles are a good choice for footwear. In extreme conditions, traction aids that attach to your footwear can help prevent slips and falls. Remember to remove traction aids before walking on interior building floors to prevent slipping.
Here are additional tips for severe winter weather:
- Walk with shorter, choppier steps with toes pointed slightly outward when on slippery surfaces.
- Wear winter shoes/boots outside and change once inside.
- Wear multiple layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite.
- Wear a hat to protect your ears and preserve body heat.
- Wear sunglasses to cut down on glare.
- Report slippery areas that need attention via the work order system.
The Physical Plant Grounds Crew works to keep walks, parking lots and roadways clear. However, they are responsible for about 23 miles of footpaths, 54 acres of parking lots, and 4.3 miles of roadways. It takes a significant amount of time to clear all of these areas. The Grounds Crew often starts at 3 a.m. to meet the demands of winter weather. Please be aware of campus conditions and snow removal equipment operating in the area.
University community members are encouraged to sign up for official Ferris State University emergency text alerts ;to learn quickly about time-sensitive campus safety issues and closings or delays due to weather or other disruptions.
Take time to view the FEMA Winter Weather Preparedness video:
Click winter weather preparedness for online information.