The Winter Olympics are over, but it’s still winter here in the Midwest with no end in sight. You need proof? Along with the arctic temperatures, the amount of ice on sidewalks, in streets and in driveways is making just getting to the car an ice hiking adventure.
Slips and falls are very common in these icy times. Rather than never leaving the house, consider these suggestions to make your time outside as safe as it can be:
- As you prepare to walk to or from a car, or from one building to another, think about the best route to your destination.
- Choose your route carefully and avoid any shortcuts that appear to have an accumulation of ice or frozen snow.
- Don’t park in a place that doesn’t allow you to walk safely to your destination.
- Always wear appropriate footwear. Leave the fashionable high heels in your purse and change into them upon arrival, if you must.
- Do not be embarrassed to use handrails.
- Take slightly smaller steps even if it makes you like an old person!
- Don’t carry large parcels. Take multiple trips instead of overloading. Try to keep one hand free if possible; if not, try to balance your load.
- Take it slow: this isn’t the time for running or racing.
- Wear gloves and keep your hands out of your pockets for balance.
- Sometimes, it’s just the getting in and out of vehicles that is the most troublesome; ice can be just under the doors. Look down before you get in and out of vehicles and grab on to the vehicle. Ask for help if you feel nervous.
- At your home, do your best to keep all paths clear as soon as snow falls or ice melts. Delaying this process causes a much harder pack and low, low temperatures make the use of salt less effective.
- If you have an elderly friend or relative, be aware that they are particularly vulnerable when the paths are icy. Reach out to them and offer to run some of their errands or even to drive them so they can be dropped off at the door and not have to traverse the icy terrain.
Hopefully, you can avoid any harm or injury. If you have been injured during a slip and fall, please feel free to contact Turner and Turner. We are in your corner.
