Snow and ice are hazards for mail carriers

By Antonio Coleman

CADILLAC Five days a week, Sherry Davies walks nearly 13 miles delivering mail to homes in Cadillac.

No matter the weather, Davies starts her day at 7 a.m., prepared to carry about 70 pounds of mail to area homes and businesses.

During her weekend route, Davies passed an uncleared driveway and snow-covered mailbox.

I fell right here Friday, Davies said, pointing to the homes uncleared walkway.

Davies said uncleared sidewalks and snow-covered mailboxes are two of the most difficult challenges mail carriers face and one of the most hazardous parts of her job.

Last year, I and another mail carrier fell and broke our arms. We both had to have surgery, Davies said.

Although Davies returned to work, she said the threat of a fall is always a looming concern when carrying mail door-to-door. Unfortunately, slips and falls are quite common, she said.

But its not just the snow and ice that can be a concern for mail carriers.

February has brought some of the coldest temperatures to Northern Michigan this winter and Davies said the below-zero temperatures can often slow her down.

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Snow and ice are hazards for mail carriers