SPRING HAS SPRUNG!!!

Spring weather can be unpredictable. When severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases, so planning ahead makes sense. Prepare for storms and floods in advance, to the extent possible, because in the spring, inclement weather is to be expected.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Temperatures can swing back and forth between mild and severe. Beautiful, sunny spring days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. Sometimes extreme weather changes can occur even within the same day. Because spring weather is so unpredictable, you may be unprepared when severe weather hits—particularly if you live in a region that does not often experience thunderstorms or flooding. It seems that as global changes continue to impact our region, seasons are not as historically finite, but the Spring season continues to be from (varying between) March 19 and 21 to (around) June 21. So for these months, plan for frequent weather changes.

If your commute will be impacted by a significant change in weather conditions, plan accordingly to minimize if not alleviate the need to rush to work. You can take these steps to forecast for an altered or extended commute:

1. Talk to your supervisor. Open communication with your supervisor may prevent consequences of tardiness related to severe weather conditions. More than likely your supervisor must travel the same path to arrive to the work location. If you are proactive and professional in addressing your concerns regarding an altered or extended commute, your supervisor may be more likely to adjust your start time or allow for tardiness given the circumstances.
2. Plan accordingly. For most employees, attendance at the office is a requirement; however, if you can avoid travel to other locations throughout the day, do so – only leaving the office when absolutely necessary. Try to schedule meetings as teleconferences or by video chat. For employees that have the option to telecommute and avoid attendance at the office on severe stormy days, take advantage of that option and stay off the road.
3. Drive safely. Plan your commute to and from work to allow yourself enough time to arrive to work safely. While driving make sure to keep a safe distance behind the automobile in front of you; pull over or reduce your speed if visibility is too poor to continue; focus on the road conditions – avoiding use of your cellular phone (even with a hands-free device). For other tips on how to safely maneuver in special driving conditions, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.