How to Walk on the Ice - Without Falling!

Many of the sidewalks and parking lots are covered in ice after the last few snow storms.  Even if they are plowed or shoveled, there may still be a layer of ice underneath.  Here are a few tips to help you navigate the slippery surfaces safely:

• Tread carefully until you know if there is ice underneath that thin layer of snow.  A little bit of exploratory walking will help you determine if you can walk normally or not.
• Keep your hands out of your pockets while walking on slippery surfaces so you can use your arms for balance.
• Walk on the southern portions of sidewalks and parking lots as the sun may have melted any ice in those areas.
• Walk like a penguin!  Spread your feet out, put your arms out for balance, and take small steps.
• Using small shuffling steps to keep both feet on the ground.  This will give you better balance and traction.
• Use handrails on steps and consider taking them one at a time if they are icy.
• If you find yourself falling, try to fall to your side, having most of the fall absorbed by your thigh, hip or shoulder. Keep relaxed and and try not to stick out your arm to avoid breaking your wrist or arm.

Should all of the above fail and you find yourself injured by a fall on the ice, rest assured we are here to help!