You look outside and see streets covered in snow and ice.

But at the same time, you have those new shoes that you really want to wear. So you throw them on, but then you wipe out when you're crossing the street.

Falling on ice hurts more than your pride. It can cause serious physical injury. And while salt truck drivers and maintenance workers may do their best, there is still a risk of slipping when walking on snow or ice.

 

Tips that may reduce your risk of falling on snow or ice:

  • Check the weather before you leave. Knowing what to expect before you leave could make planning a lot easier.
  • Choose the appropriate shoes. Wear shoes with a non-slip bottom. They don't test stilettos and wingtips for these kinds of conditions, so maybe put them away for a few days, or carry them with you and change when you get inside.
  • Adjust your stride. You want to keep your knees directly above your feet, so your gravity is centered. Also, make your stride a little bit longer.
  • Try walking through the snow instead of on ice, if you have the option. But remember, snow usually sits on ice, so this is by no means a fail-safe alternative.

 

Unfortunately, despite our best efforts to stay safe in winter weather, sometimes mother nature still wins. Here are two tips that could help you  to potentially avoid serious injury if you slip on snow or ice:

Try to hit the ice with all your appendages at the same time. If you spread your arms and legs out and have them hit the ground before the rest of you, it spreads out the impact and could help save your spine.

Tuck your chin when falling. Putting your chin to your chest could help protect your head and avoids whiplash.

 

Download this technical guide here.

The views and opinions expressed in this blog are the personal views and experiences of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the official views, practices and/or policies of State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company, and its affiliates and subsidiaries. State Auto makes no representations or guarantee as to the correctness or sufficiency of any information contained herein, or guarantees results based upon use of this information. State Auto does not warrant that reliance upon this document will prevent accident or losses, or satisfy federal, state or local codes, ordinances and regulations. The reader assumes entire risk as to use of this information.

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