Tips for preventing slips, trips and falls
St. John Ambulance encourages all to make safety their first priority in all seasons. Getting through winter without a slip or a fall is not difficult if you care and follow the following rules:
Make sure your footwear has treads and is appropriate for cold and icy weather
Be a "defensive walker". Walk slowly and carefully; test slippery areas by tapping a foot on them before walking
Avoid icy areas or walkways if there is an alternate route available
Make yourself visible to drivers by wearing a bright colored jacket
Keep your hands free and out of your pockets to balance yourself in case of slips
Be particularly careful when new snow may have hidden icy patches beneath it
Avoid carrying heavy loads whenever possible; that will help you keep the balance and keep the path visible
Be specially cautious of the slippery conditions in the morning when the melted ice from the previous day may have frozen
When getting out of your vehicle, look down at the surface, if there is ice; consider parking in a different spot. Hold on to door or car to get out to give yourself extra support
When entering into a building or home, carefully look for the melted ice or snow to avoid slipping
Remove the snow from the soles of your slippers as you enter indoors and use handrails on stairs
Be prepared! Give yourself enough time to get where you are going. Your chances of fall increase when you are running late and rush.
- St. John Ambulance Saskatchewan
