Winter Walking Safety To Prevent Slips And Trips

Whenever you have to walk around icy parking lots and on the paths between buildings, it will require some special walking attention in order to avoid slipping and falling. Slips and falls have contributed to various levels of injuries during the winter season. Even if the sidewalks and the parking lots have been cleared of the ice or snow during winter, the slip tendency can never be entirely eliminated and people walking outdoors might still encounter slippery pathways. Oblivious of these dangers people have had severe injuries when walking on ice and slippery surfaces. It is, therefore, essential for people to be constantly advised and sensitized to these hazards.

Walking Tips To Keep From Slipping

When walking over icy paths keep these things in mind:

• Ensure that you approach all icy, dark and wet areas with a lot of caution without any assumption during the cold seasons. Water vapor or fog may freeze on surfaces and form an extra-thin layer of ice that is almost invisible but can be very slippery.
• Be sure to walk only on designated walkways by all means. Shortcuts over those snow piles and wet areas can be perilous.
• Making a slight bend while walking flat-footed may be very helpful because the center of gravity of your body is directly over the feet enhancing some balance.
• Stretching out your hands to the sides will also enable you to maintain balance. Make sure your hands are free, and if you must carry something it should be light.
• Never keep your hands in your pockets. It can be easy to resist a fall while your hands are free than in your pockets.
• Be watchful of where you foot is stepping and  proceed slowly because it will be easy to react when you feel a slip coming.
• Exercise a lot of caution when exiting and entering vehicles; You may use the vehicle to support yourself.
• Ensure you climb stairs using the hand railings, and your feet needs to be firmly planted on each step.

Extra Tips For Being Outdoors In The Cold

Here are some essential tips to bear in mind regarding your clothing and warmth.

• Wear sensible shoes. It is important to avoid high-heeled shoes or boots with smooth heels and soles. Shoes that create traction on icy surfaces would be the best especially boots that are made of neoprene or non-slip rubber and with grooved soles.
• Put on a bulky jacket that can cushion you in case you fall.
• Ensure the clothes that you wear are somewhat reflective to enhance clear visibility. Truck drivers and other motorists should be able to notice you from afar.
• Don’t underestimate the winter sun glare. You may want to wear sunglasses to help you with visibility during the day.
• Whatever you wear, ensure you do not block your eyes or ears lest you collide with traffic or other immovable objects.