Taking care of carriers

To the editor:

Crisp days, cooler nights — who doesn’t love fall? But taking a fall – that’s a different issue.

Leaves in an array of colors add a blanket of pre-winter beauty to the New England landscape. But what lies beneath those leaves can be treacherous. Holes, hoses, branches and toys can be camouflaged trip hazards around your home, and wet leaves can be as slippery as ice. That puts any visitor to your residence, including letter carriers, at risk.

You can help protect visitors to your home by removing debris and leaves and promptly repairing broken stairs or walkways. Please keep your entryway free of items that can become hidden hazards and make sure your downspouts are clear and direct water away from walkways.

To safely deliver, carriers need a clear path to your mailbox. Overhanging branches or leaf piles at boxes should be removed. Boxes that are improperly mounted, rusted or won’t close securely should be replaced and house numbers on boxes should be visible. This is the time of year to address any mailbox issues before the snow falls.

With Daylight Savings time it will be getting dark earlier. Leaving a light on to illuminate any outdoor hazards will help your carrier to safely deliver your mail.

As we approach the holiday season, thank you for your cooperation keeping your property safe while our letter carriers continue to provide the First Class service you’ve come to expect.

John Godlewski

District Manager

Customer Service and Sales

U.S. Postal Service