From holiday decorating and parties to frozen pipes and slick sidewalks, the winter season can create risks that lead to costly claims, disruptions or liability exposure for business owners. The good news: with proper planning, you can significantly reduce wintertime hazards and keep operations running safely and smoothly.
Below is your winter risk management guide, designed to help you safeguard your employees, customers, property and operations.
Holiday Decorating: Festive, Fun—and Potentially Risky
Holiday décor can boost morale and enhance the seasonal atmosphere, but it can also create fire, electrical and safety hazards if not handled correctly.
Common Office Decorating Hazards
Overloaded outlets and power strips
Flammable décor near heat sources
Tripping hazards from cords and lighting
Blocked emergency exits or fire sprinklers
Dry, combustible holiday greenery
Holiday Decor Tips for Businesses
Only use UL-certified commercial-grade lights.
Inspect all cords for damage before installation.
Avoid connecting multiple power strips or extension cords.
Keep all décor at least three feet from heating vents or radiators.
Do not block sprinklers, smoke detectors, or exit routes.
Assign someone to oversee décor safety during the season.
A festive workplace shouldn’t create added risk. A few extra safety steps ensure your team enjoys the season without incident.
Holiday Parties: Reduce Liability While Celebrating Responsibly
Whether on-site or off-site, company holiday parties can expose employers to various liability risks—from alcohol-related incidents to workers’ comp claims.
Top Liability Risks at Company Parties
Over consumption of alcohol by employees.
Harassment or inappropriate behavior.
Slips and falls at event venues.
Employer liability for accidents occurring after the event.
Increased exposure if attendance is perceived as mandatory.
Holiday Party Risk Management Strategies
If serving alcohol, hire trained bartenders and offer plenty of food and non-alcoholic options.
Provide transportation alternatives (rideshare credits, shuttle services).
Reinforce anti-harassment and conduct policies beforehand.
Clearly communicate that attendance is voluntary.
Hold events earlier in the day when excessive drinking is less likely.
Select reputable venues with appropriate liability coverage.
A well-planned party protects both employees and the business while still delivering a memorable celebration.
Winter Weather and Property Protection
Frozen pipes, roof leaks and structural strain from storms are some of the most common winter property claims. Proactive maintenance can save thousands in cleanup, repairs and business interruption.
Frozen Pipes
When temperatures drop, your building’s pipes are at risk.
Prevention Measures
Insulate exposed pipes.
Set thermostats to at least 55°F at all times—even overnight or on weekends.
Allow faucets to drip during extreme cold.
Install smart leak-detection or temperature sensors.
Make sure fire sprinkler systems are properly winterized.
Roof & Gutter Maintenance
Snow, ice dams and freezing rain can cause serious roof damage.
Prevention Measures
Schedule a pre-winter roof inspection.
Clear gutters and drainage systems regularly.
Remove heavy snow buildup safely (using trained professionals).
Inspect seals around skylights, vents and HVAC units.
HVAC Winterization
A failed heating system can shut down operations and lead to pipe issues.
Steps to Prepare
Change filters before cold weather hits.
Have your system inspected by a licensed technician.
Keep backup heating sources available.
Proactive maintenance is far less expensive than repairing winter weather damage.
Slip-and-Fall Hazards: Wet and Icy Walkways
Slip-and-fall injuries are among the most frequent wintertime claims and can cost businesses tens of thousands of dollars. Even one incident involving a customer, vendor or employee can lead to significant liability exposure.
Key Risks
Icy parking lots
Wet lobbies and entryways
Snow tracked onto floors
Poor lighting during shorter daylight hours
Risk-Management Tips
Contract with a reputable snow and ice removal service, and document all services performed.
Place heavy-duty floor mats at every entrance and replace them regularly when saturated.
Use clear signage for slippery areas and maintain regular mop-and-dry rotations in high-traffic areas.
Use slip-resistant floor coatings in areas prone to moisture.
Improve exterior lighting around walkways, parking lots and entry paths.
Train employees to report or address hazards immediately.
Commercial Auto and Fleet Safety
If your business relies on driving—whether for deliveries, service calls or employee travel—winter weather increases accident risk.
Winter Vehicle Safety Steps
Inspect and service all fleet vehicles before the season.
Check tire tread, battery strength, wipers and antifreeze levels.
Equip vehicles with winter kits (blankets, flashlights, ice scrapers).
Train employees on safe winter driving techniques.
Implement a weather travel policy to prevent unnecessary risks.
Review your commercial auto insurance limits and coverages.
Employee Safety and Emergency Preparedness
A safe workforce is essential for business continuity during the winter.
Action Steps for Employers
Allow remote work when weather creates dangerous commuting conditions.
Update emergency plans for winter scenarios, including power outages.
Create a communication plan for office closures or delays.
Conduct safety refreshers for cold-weather hazards, equipment use and emergency procedures.
Stock emergency supplies: blankets, flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits.
Supply Chain and Operational Continuity
Winter storms can trigger unexpected delays, closures, supply shortages or shipping disruptions—all of which can impact business operations.
Continuity Planning Tips
Identify critical suppliers and confirm their winter weather contingency plans.
Carry surplus inventory of essential materials or products.
Create backup plans for shipping and logistics.
Confirm your business interruption coverage is up to date.
Ensure remote systems are secure and accessible in case employees must work off-site.
Operational preparedness ensures your business can continue functioning despite seasonal uncertainties.
Insurance Coverage Review: Close Gaps Before Something Goes Wrong
Winter is an excellent time to review your insurance policies to confirm you’re properly protected heading into the new year.
Coverage Areas to Review
Commercial Property: Fire, water damage, snow/ice damage
General Liability: Slip-and-fall incidents, holiday event exposure
Employment Practices Liability (EPLI): Misconduct at company events
Workers’ Compensation: Winter-related injuries
Commercial Auto: Winter driving risks
Cyber Insurance: Increased online activity and related scams
Business Interruption: Weather-related shutdowns
Winter Doesn’t Have to Mean Increased Risk
With the right preparation and proactive risk management strategies, businesses can stay protected all winter long. Addressing holiday safety, weather-related hazards and the right insurance coverage will help you reduce liabilities and avoid preventable disruptions.
Questions about business insurance? Contact the Wallace & Turner team here.