Slips, Trips and Falls.
Look Down…….Look all around!
YOU need to be AWARE, ATTENTIVE, and ALERT of the wet and icy conditions to keep yourself safe.
No matter how well snow and ice are removed, you will encounter some slippery surfaces when walking outdoors in the winter and when entering buildings if hard floors are present. Many cold-weather injuries are the result of falls on ice-covered streets and sidewalks. Getting around in icy conditions calls for…..
Planning, caution, and a little common sense
YOU can reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in icy conditions by:
- Wearing appropriate footwear. Wear boots or shoes that provide traction on snow and ice that have rubber and neoprene composite. AVOID plastic and leather soles. Be careful of wearing “worn-out” shoes. Bring outside shoes to walk to and from building.
- Avoid routes that have not been cleared or appear to be glazed over. PLAN AHEAD. Give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. Remember that Northern exposures will remain icy almost all winter long.
- Walk in designated walkways as much as possible. Taking shortcuts over snow piles and areas where snow and ice removal is not feasible can be hazardous. Look ahead when you walk, a sidewalk completely covered with ice may require travel along its grassy edge for traction.
- Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles. Use the vehicle for support. Use extra care when entering buildings.
- Refrain from carrying large objects that may obstruct your view and make you lose your balance.
- TAKE SHORT STEPS or shuffle for stability. Bend slightly, walking flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over your feet as much as possible. Walk like a penguin! Walk Slowly
- Be prepared to fall
- Use ice melt and salt on walkways.
