The Hidden Hazards Delivery Drivers Face During The Holidays
It’s a story as old as time:
The family dog charges at an unsuspecting postman.
When we think of dogs and Christmas, this probably isn’t the first image that comes to mind.
More often, people say, “Dogs aren’t just for Christmas.”
But for delivery drivers, the holiday season can bring a different kind of worry.
Why Dogs Pose A Unique Threat To Delivery Drivers
No matter how cute or friendly a dog might appear, their instincts can still take you by surprise.
For certain dogs, the sight of a delivery driver’s fingers slipping through the letterbox quickly registers as an unwelcome intrusion.
In fact, just recently, we stumbled upon the story of a Scotsman who has learned this lesson firsthand.
Real Stories: When Friendly Fidos Turn Fierce
Glen Morgan, a veteran delivery driver for Hermes, has had his share of run-ins with canines.
In his eight years on the job, he’s been attacked four times.
His first encounter was especially severe—requiring stitches and a tetanus shot.
A Neighborhood Hazard That’s Hard To Avoid
Most delivery drivers know which homes in their neighborhood have aggressive dogs.
But here’s the thing:
In most cases, there’s very little a driver can do aside from hoping that the owners will keep their pets secured and out of reach.
Not exactly what you’d want on your Christmas wish list, is it?
The Unexpected Danger Of Surprise Attacks
And then, there are the sneak attacks.
Unpredictable and startling, these can be the most nerve-wracking of all.
For many, non-contact delivery during the pandemic brought a sense of relief.
According to Royal Mail, dog attacks on their delivery staff dropped by 31% with non-contact delivery.
Staying Safe: Resources And Advice For Drivers
Royal Mail has a helpful resource—the “Dog Awareness” page—for posties looking to stay safe.
Here, you’ll find:
- Tips for drivers on handling dog encounters
- Advice for dog owners to prevent incidents
- Case studies like Glen Morgan’s
You can even see which areas in the UK are the worst for dog attacks on delivery drivers.
A Final Word Of Caution For The Holiday Season
As the Christmas rush ramps up, delivery drivers work harder than ever.
The moral of the story?
Be cautious and aware of your surroundings—especially when dogs are nearby.
One last tip:
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