Could wet leaves lead to injury?

Fall is a beautiful time in Illinois. The leaves change to a rainbow of different colors that make the landscape stunning. However, soon after changing colors, leaves start turning brown and falling off the trees. You probably already know that leaves on roadways become quite dangerous if they get wet. The same is true for leaves falling around your home.

Columbia explains that leaves on your sidewalks and steps outside your home can create an incredibly slippery situation that invites falls and accidents. It is up to you as the homeowner to make sure you keep the outside of your home safe for visitors. In the fall, that means raking leaves and keeping walk areas clean.

Leaves can be as slippery as ice when it gets damp or wet. It does not take much moisture to make them dangerous. When wet, they will not provide any traction. Plus, they can cover up other hazards, such as holes, uneven sidewalks and tree roots.

Combine all the risks of fallen leaves with the earlier sunset and dampness of fall and it equals a hazard to everyone who visits your home. This is why it is essential that you rake up leaves and clean off walkways, especially if you expect any company. This is also an excellent time to note any hazards, such as tree roots in walkways and broken or uneven sidewalks, because snow is just around the corner and it works much like leaves to hide dangers. It is a good time to make repairs before winter hits. This information is for education and is not legal advice.