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  • A tip toe in the dark and how to avoid hidden obstacles

    A tip toe in the dark and how to avoid hidden obstacles

    A tip toe in the dark and how to avoid hidden obstacles

    They are there. Hidden, but there. They are not always easy to see. Especially if there is no porch light. In fact, do a little jig, bob and weave just a bit. Nope, no motion sensor light either. This looks like another perilous, hidden obstacle dance. It could be anywhere. Or maybe nothing’s there. Tough to say in the solemn darkness of night. However the show must go on, and the cargo will not walk itself to the door. Double check to see…and no, the cargo is not walking itself to the door.

    A Tip Toe In the Dark

    There is a new season on the way. It is one of the busiest times of the year for couriers. In fact, all delivery people are busy at this time of year. Summer is coming to an end, and Fall is approaching fast! With a new season on the way, couriers must begin to adapt to the changes. Although this is sometimes easier said than done, it is a part of the job. There will be a shift in the conditions couriers are currently working with.

    Currently it is still summertime. But that is changing fast. There is already less daylight, and nights are getting longer. What was once a daylight delivery, is now a tip toe through the dark. Every courier knows that nighttime delivery is more challenging. Furthermore, add in some traffic pressure, and the process gets exponentially more difficult.

    tip toe

    The difficulty is about reduced visibility. And the darker it is, the more reduced the visibility. Suddenly those first two steps can’t be seen. They blend in with the darkness. The same goes for the sudden step down that is almost invisible. And the sprinkler, just on this side of the sidewalk, is nearly invisible in the dark. Tripping over it is no fun. It will definitely leave a bruise.

    Tip Toe Hidden Obstacle Challenge

    They are there. Hidden but definitely there. From the street it is difficult to see the terrain leading up to the front door. It blends in with the darkness. If the driveway is easier to access than parking on the street, so much the better. However, there is still the trek to the front steps. Shortcuts are nice, but not when there’s every chance of tripping over something. Or worse.

    Although most places have a porch light, it isn’t always on. Furthermore, most places with ornate landscaping usually have motion sensor lighting. However, it isn’t always helpful. In some cases the courier goes through the danger zone, and then the motion lights kick on. Therefore, sticking to the steps or sidewalk is important unless they are completely blocked off.

    With this in mind there are times when parking on the street in front of the drop-off location is the only way. In fact, that is a constant consideration for the courier. Where to stage the ride while away. This is something that can have consequences, if not handled responsibly. Therefore, parking in the street should be with lights and flashers, if possible. That leaves a trek across the front yard. Or up the hill. Whichever it is having a flashlight to monitor the terrain is a best practice.

    Down a Hole, Gopher Hole That Is

    The gophers and the squirrels stay at it night and day. Furthermore, they have things to do before the days of the season get too short. If we are to empathize with the gopher, then one noticeable thing is the gopher hole. It must be dark down there. Furthermore, the gopher hole is likely very deep. Those little diggers are an industrious bunch.

    tip toe

    However, the entrance to gopher headquarters, is a hidden obstacle just waiting to twist the courier’s ankle. Especially when navigating using the tip toe method. This is where the additional light comes in handy. There are many couriers using the phone for a light to help guide the way. Although a dedicated flashlight beam may be on the safer side, any light is helpful. Any additional help works when scouting for the hidden gopher hole.

    Positioning the vehicle is also a technique to help shed some light on things. Particularly when in the driveway. A slight turn on the wheel to angle the headlights along the walking path, is one of the things the ride does best. It excels at covering the courier. Stay safe out there.

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    September 8, 2025
    Donald Grant
    dark delivery, gig-work, hidden obstacles, porch light, safety, tip toe
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