Slipping and Sliding

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 16, 2010) — Just one false step and you could find yourself in a hospital emergency room when winter weather consumes our world.

Like driving on snow and ice, winter walking takes skill and experience. Walking on slippery sidewalks, icy parking lots and snowy landscapes requires special attention to avoid slipping and falling. Slips, trips and falls are some of the most frequent types of injuries that University of Kentucky Occupational Health and Safety sees, especially during the winter months.

“No matter how well the snow and ice are removed from parking lots or sidewalks, pedestrians will still encounter some slippery surfaces when walking outdoors in the winter. It is important for everyone to be constantly aware of these dangers and to learn to walk safely on icy, slippery surfaces,” said Jason Burns, safety specialist in UK Environmental Health and Safety.

Following these winter walking safety tips to keep yourself safe and injury free while walking in the winter months.

• Wear the right shoes
- insulated boots with good rubber treads
- rubber over-shoes with good treads
- ice cleats or/crampons

• Use cleared, designated routes (See the UK Snow Removal Plan at http://www.ppd.uky.edu/snow_removal )

• Take short steps and walk at a slower pace

• Be on the lookout for sliding, out-of-control vehicles

• Utilize the handrail when climbing up or down stairs

• Wear bright clothing or reflective gear

• Wear sunglasses on sunny days to help you see better

• Remove as much snow as possible from shoes and boots before entering a building
- Stay on mats inside buildings
- Be aware of wet and/or slick surfaces