Winter Safety to Prevent Slips and Falls
Preventing Falls During the Winter Months
With winter in full swing here on the coast we know just how this weather brings an added stress of potential slips and falls on ice. Injuries from a slip or fall could leave you with strained muscles, bruises, abrasions, broken limbs, cracked ribs, serious back and/or head injuries. It can leave you in pain for some time and it could potentially leave you missing work to recovery.
It's important to feel confident so let's explore these tips we put together to help prepare for the wet and icy conditions.
Tips to Avoid Slips and Falls during Icy Conditions
To help minimize your risk of slipping or falling, consider the following:- Wear appropriate footwear with extra traction. For added protection, use ice grippers or crampons when you know you will be encountering some more dangerous icy spots.
- Keep your muscles warm and supple by dressing warmly. This allows you body to move easier AND helps recovery in the event you slip and fall.
- Before going on walks, do some warm up movement to get the blood flowing to your muscles to help prevent injury and to make it easier to move along slippery sections.
- Use handrails where available. Don't take any shortcuts and stay on cleared pathways. Stay alert for black ice, particularily at night when your vision is more limited.
- Take extra time to get to your location and walk slowly and deliberately. Rushing puts you at greater chances of a mistep and slip. And, naturally, it is best not to run.
- When going indoors, ensure to remove all snow and ice off your shoes. This is especially important in areas that are high slip and use tiles such as stores and bathrooms.
- Take extra caution when getting out of your vehicle. For best balance plant both feet on the ground and use the door for added support. Push yourself straight up using your glutes to activate your core muscles for support.
- Use salt or sand around your house to prevent you and others from slipping and falling.
The biggest take away we can instill is for you to be cognizant and aware when you get outside in the chilly weather. Ice can be under fresh snow, it can be invisible like black ice and it can cause a lot of havoc for vehicles and people alike.
Stay safe out there!
