Health Tips

How to avoid winter slips and falls

January 27, 2022

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Every year, adults of all ages are injured by slips, trips, and falls. Winter’s cold, rain, sleet, and snow make it easier to fall. Follow these tips to lower your risk:

Plan ahead. Wait for bad weather conditions to clear before going out. Allow for enough time to get around without rushing. If your usual route is snowy or icy, look for other ways to get where you’re going.
Use handrails. Always use a handrail when walking up or down stairs, or along a sloping walkway.
Walk slowly and take smaller steps. This way, you can be sure you have your footing. Bend forward slightly and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity over your feet. This will help keep you stable on slippery surfaces.
Stay in well-lit areas. Keep your lights on, inside and outside. Look for travel routes with good lighting. When possible, use walkways that are well maintained.
Keep your hands free. Bracing yourself with your hands helps avoid serious injuries. Avoid carrying items in slippery conditions. If you fall while you are holding something, drop it so that you can protect yourself.
Pay attention. Be aware of your surroundings, especially patches of ice. Test for black ice by tapping the area with your toe before stepping down. Step straight down instead of out when exiting a vehicle or walking off a curb.
Wear appropriate footwear. Wear boots or shoes with rough, slip resistant soles. Rubber soles are safest. Don’t wear loose shoes or shoes with high heels.
Dress for the weather. Wearing extra layers of clothing and gloves gives you padding in case you fall.
Clean your shoes or switch to indoor shoes once you are inside. Snow and ice can freeze on shoes, making them slippery. Always sit down before cleaning or removing shoes. Wipe your feet and watch for slippery floors.

There is no way to prevent falls entirely. If you do fall, you should:

Protect your head as much as possible. If you hit your head during a fall, follow up with your primary care provider as soon as possible.
Check yourself for injuries. If you feel injured, look for someone to help you get up. You could get hurt again if you try to get up by yourself.
If you are not hurt, try to get up safely. It is safest to move slowly, get to your hands and knees, and look for a sturdy object to help pull yourself up.

Don’t be afraid to advocate for safe conditions where you live. You may be able to contact a landlord, condo association, or city or town for winter safety issues, including snow and ice removal.

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