Safety Tips to Prevent Slipping on Ice

Rule #1=Prevention!

1. Plan ahead. Give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. (1)
2. Wear proper footwear. Try to wear flat-soles shoes and avoid shoes with heels. (1) Products are available with abrasive soles or cleats that provide increased traction while walking on snow and ice. 
3. Keep both hands free for balance rather than in your pockets. (1)
4. Wear a heavy bulky coat, not only for warmth but for cushion if you do fall. (2)
5. Do not text or read while walking. (1)

If you find yourself on ice, walk like a penguin (2)

1. Point your feet out slightly. This will increase your center of gravity (2)
2. Take short and flat footed steps. (2)
3. Keep your center of gravity over the foot in contact with the ground. (1)
4. Walk slowly and never run on ice. (1)

If you find yourself falling

1. Try to relax your body. (1 and 2)
2. Toss whatever load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried. (1)
3. Fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip, and shoulder. Avoid using your arms to brace yourself. (2)
4. Flex your back and your neck forward to avoid hitting your head against the ground if your feet fly out from under you. (1)

References:

1. Helpful Hints When Walking on Snow or Ice. (n.d.). Retrieved January 25, 2021, from https://www.ehs.iastate.edu/weather/winter/walking
2. Vickie Behrends, M. (2020, January 17). Prevent falls on snow and ice: Walk like a penguin: News: Des Moines University. Retrieved January 25, 2021, from https://www.dmu.edu/news/2020/01/prevent-falls-on-snow-and-ice/