Slips, Trips and Falls:
How To Avoid During The Winter
Slips: This happens when there isn’t enough grip between your foot and the surface, making you lose balance. Slips are more likely if you rush, run, or wear the wrong shoes.
Trips: A trip occurs when your foot hits something and makes you lose your balance. This often happens when you’re rushing or not paying attention.
Falls: A fall happens when your body shifts too far off balance. Falls are a leading cause of accidents at work.
How to Avoid Slips, Trips and Falls
1. Check Your Boots
- Look at the bottom of your boots. If the tread (grip) is worn down or smooth, it’s time to get new ones.
2. Wear Ice Grips Outside
- Ice grips help your boots grab the ground better and keep you from slipping.
3. Walk Like a Penguin
- Take small, slow steps.
- Keep your feet flat and shuffle when walking on snow or ice.
4. Use Support
- Use Hold onto handrails, walls, or anything steady to help keep your balance.
5. Watch Where You Walk
- Look out for icy spots.
- Fresh snow might be hiding ice underneath.
6. Help Keep the Area Safe
- If you see snow or ice that needs to be cleared, report it so someone can put down salt or sand
7. Park Close to Doors
- If you can, choose a parking spot near the entrance to avoid walking far on icy surfaces.
8. Carry Less
- Try not to carry too many things at once.
- Use a backpack or cart so your hands are free to help you balance
How To Fall To Lower Risk of Injury
Sometimes, slipping is unavoidable. If you start to fall:
1. Tuck Your Chin
- This protects your head and neck.
2. Pull in Your Arms and Legs
- Keeps them safe from hitting the ground.
3. Try to Roll
- Rolling helps spread out the impact and lowers the chance of getting hurt.
4. Land on Softer Parts
- Try to fall on your butt, thighs, or side. These areas have more muscle to absorb the fall.
