Navigating Winter Weather: Let’s Stay Safe, Sane, and in Communication

If you’ve lived through even one Grey Bruce winter, you already know the drill:
It’s sunny in Owen Sound, but snowing sideways in Shallow Lake, and within a moment it all flips and we’re in a full white-out.

Winter is dramatic.
And because of that, we’ve created a Winter Weather Policy that puts safety first, without sacrificing clarity or fairness for you or our RMTs.

Let’s walk you through it in a way that actually feels human.

1. When We Have to Cancel

Sometimes the snow wins. If the roads are unsafe and your RMT can’t get to the clinic, we’ll cancel your appointment with as much notice as we can provide — no fee, no stress, just communication.

You’ll hear from us through:

  • Email

  • Jane Communications

  • Phone call (when we can)

And because weather changes fast, we ask that you always check your email before leaving the house, no matter the time of day, but especially for your early morning appointments.

2. When You Don’t Feel Safe Driving

We would never ask, nor require someone to white-knuckle their way down icy roads to get a massage — even though we’ve had many patients tell us it’s worth it.

If the weather makes you uneasy:

  • Please tell us as early as possible

  • There is no cancellation fee for weather-related concerns

  • Early notice lets us offer the spot to someone nearby who can travel safely

  • It also helps our RMTs adjust their day (or get home before the roads worsen)

Your safety truly does come first.

3. When We Don’t Hear From You at All

Here’s the one part that stays consistent year-round:

If you miss your appointment without contacting us, the 100% cancellation fee still applies, even during winter weather.

We are very understanding about extenuating circumstances — but communication is required.
A quick email or voicemail is all we ask.

4. When the Weather Turns on a Dime

If the weather in this region had a personality, it would definitely be unpredictable.

Storms blow in fast.
Roads ice unexpectedly.
The forecast changes every five minutes.

Because of this:

  • Your appointment may change on short notice

  • Afternoon appointments can be affected just as much as morning ones

  • Checking your email is essential before you head out

We’ll always do our best to communicate early, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.

5. Working Together Makes Winter Easier for Everyone

Our winter approach is simple: We promise to communicate clearly, early, and with care and
we ask you to do the same.

Here’s how we help each other:

We will:

  • notify you as soon as possible

  • prioritize safety

  • keep communication calm and respectful

  • face all communication with understanding

We ask you to:

  • stay subscribed to emails + texts

  • check notifications before leaving home

  • reach out if you’re unsure about driving or need to cancel

  • have understanding for our policies and procedures

Together, we keep the clinic running smoothly — and everyone safe.

A Winter Policy with Heart

We’re not just a clinic. We’re a community.
So whether it’s a snowy Tuesday morning or a sudden afternoon storm, we’re here to support you, keep you informed, and help you navigate the season safely.

If you ever have questions or need guidance about winter appointments, reach out. We’re always happy to help.

Feel free to reach out any time:

  • Phone: 519-372-4418

  • Email: admin@totalrecovery.ca

Next
Next

Why Staying Subscribed to Your Appointment Notifications Isn’t Just Inbox Clutter