Walking in a winter wonderland

Ah, that first snowfall. Huge flakes tumble out of the sky, landing lightly on upturned faces, piling up on empty tree branches and covering up those unraked leaves. The ground is completely white, a winter wonderland, if ever there was one. But beneath that blanket of white, there are dangers lurking, including ice. And if you’re not paying attention, you could end up flat on your back.

“Many people don’t realize it, but the first step out of your car is the most dangerous,” said Julie Ewing, health and safety superintendent at Sanford Lab. “So often, we’re don’t pay attention to our surroundings. We step out of the car with our hands full and fall.” 

If you can’t avoid walking on ice, Ewing recommends that everyone be aware of their surroundings. 

“Check the weather before you leave home and the ground before you step out of your font door or your car. Make sure both feet are planted on the ground before you stand up,” she said. “And make sure you have at least one hand free to support yourself.” 

Ewing recommends carrying a small bag of salt or even cat litter (non-clumping) to put on the ground as you walk—especially before you step outside your car. A gritty substance will help give your shoes additional traction and prevent slips and falls. 

Follow these 10 tips from UPMC Health Beat to help prevent falls:

1. Walk slowly and carefully. Wear boots or other slip-resistant footwear. (Sanford Lab supplies cleats that fit over shoes to wear on ice—just make sure you remove them before walking indoors!)
2. Use special care when getting in and out of vehicles. Use the vehicle for support if you need to do so. 
3. Watch for slippery floors when you enter any building or home.
4. Try to avoid carrying items or walking with your hands in your pockets; this can reduce your ability to catch yourself if you lose your balance. Instead, carry a backpack if you have one.
5. Watch out for black ice.
6. Tap your foot on potentially slick areas to see if the areas are slippery.
7. Walk as flat-footed as possible in very icy areas.
8. Avoid uneven surfaces if possible. Avoid steps or curbs with ice on them.
9. Report any untreated surfaces to Maintenance and Facilities. Help us keep you safe!
10. Remember: Ice and snow mean “take it slow!”

Falls aren’t the only winter weather danger. Hypothermia, frostbite and the strain of overexertion are also a cause for concern. The National Safety Council offers tips to stay safe. 

“Whether heading to work or going home, we want our employees to get there safely,” Ewing said. "And the best way to do that is to try to prevent injuries."