We are now in the midst of winter in Alberta and across Canada, and while some areas are feeling the winter more than others, cold weather and chilly conditions definitely have an impact in Calgary and everywhere across Canada. Viktoria Professional Movers Calgary work year-round to move people locally and long distance and with approximately 14% of Canadians moving each year, it means that our Calgary local and long distance movers need to be prepared for all types of weather.
Here are some tips on moving safely in winter:
Roll out the carpet
Begin your moving day by clearing a walkway from your home to the moving truck. Collect leaves, toss salt on concrete surfaces to help reduce ice and sludge, and shovel a path through the snow. This will help keep your Calgary movers safe while carrying items from the house to the truck. At Viktoria Professional Movers Calgary, we roll out old carpets outside of the houses and on truck ramps to create slip-free pathways.
Protect your floors
Most people who live in cold climates know the pain of the accompanying snow, rain, and mud. With people traveling in and out of your house during a move, the outside elements could easily be brought inside. Secure non-slip covers on your floors to help protect them, cardboard or plastic with grip work well.
Pack securely
When packing your belongings, make sure they are secured and put in moving boxes that will easily hold their weight. Don’t overpack moving boxes. If items are fragile, wrap them in bubble wrap, newspaper, butcher’s paper or moving blankets. Insulate your goods so the elements don’t ruin pricey or priceless items, including electronics, which are susceptible to frost and moisture.
Glass and plastic items can become weakened and more breakable when they are exposed to cold elements and condensation can impact sensitive wood finishes, electronics, and antiques. Even wood glue will become sensitive to the heat fluctuations.
Watch the clock
You should never rush a move, especially in cold, wet, and icy conditions, but do remember that winter months give less daylight, which impact visibility and the quality of lighting. Do your best to plan ahead so that you are using the daylight hours wisely.
Have the clothes fit the part
Wear sensible and close-toed shoes with a good grip on your moving day. Choose clothes that can be layered – it will be a cold day, but the activity of moving will quickly warm you up. Layers allow you to easily add or take off clothing items. Hand warmers/pocket warmers are helpful too.
Fuel your body
Start the day well fed and fueled – a hearty breakfast will give you the energy to keep going with the heavy lifting. You might be tempted to drink lots of coffee to stay warm, but make sure you also drink plenty of water to keep hydrated, or substitute coffee for hot water with lemon, ginger and honey.
Take your time
Slow down when moving in wet, icy and snowy conditions. Rushing can lead to slips and spills and can result in injury or damaged belongings. Plan for the move to take longer than usual, as you navigate winter conditions. It may add some costs or delays to your day, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Know the warning signs
Though you may not be outdoors for extended periods when moving, it’s always best to be safe and know what the symptoms are for exposure to cold temperatures. First aid training is always beneficial, but if you don’t have any training you can educate yourself and anyone helping with the move in regards to the warning signs for issues such as hypothermia.
Remember about your furry family members
Moving is already a stressful time for your pets, but the added stress of cold weather can further impact the way they react to the situation. Make sure to pay extra attention to those furry family members, to help alleviate any anxiety and to make sure they have a comfortable move in the cold and wet weather.
