Postal service reports carriers hurt in icy falls

2/2/2009

The U.S. Postal Service is reminding customers to clear their mailboxes and walkways of snow and ice to enable letter carriers to deliver the mail.

Carriers who have slipped, tripped, or fallen on slippery walkways, steps, or porches have suffered injuries including broken ankles, elbows, and arms, Toledo Postmaster Jewelle Hoye said.

Letter carriers have been instructed to withhold mail at addresses where ice and snow are not cleared, but many risk their safety to serve their customers, she said.

The postal service asks that enough snow be cleared from around curbside boxes to allow mail trucks to approach, deliver the mail, and drive away safely.

Walkways and steps should be cleared to allow enough traction to prevent slips and falls, and overhangs also should be free of snow and ice.

The best way to avoid injury is prevention, Ms. Hoye said. Please help our employees provide the best service they can, as safely as possible.