Avoiding winter slips and falls
If wintertime where you live means snow and ice, it’s important to be extra careful about walking on slippery surfaces. Taking safety precautions can help you avoid a nasty spill.
Snow and ice can make slipping and falling more likely to happen. Even a short walk to the mailbox could end in a fall. These winter-wise tips could help you stay safe from slips and falls:
Clear walkways
Remove snow and ice from driveways and walkways or hire someone to do this for you. If you choose to remove the snow yourself, be sure to:
Ask your doctor if shoveling is safe for you. It could cause strain on the heart.
Push the snow with your shovel instead of lifting it
Shovel often — it’s easier to remove fresh snow before it piles up
Slow down and take breaks
Stock up on sand, rock salt or deicer
Use these to help reduce ice on walkways, driveways, steps and patios and to add traction.
Wear the right shoes
Speaking of traction, wear winter boots or shoes with rubber, nonslip soles.
Walk like a penguin
Try to steer clear of icy paths. If you must walk in places that could be icy, stay flat-footed. Walk with your arms out for balance, take small steps or shuffle your feet until you’re in the clear.
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