How Can We Walk Safely on Snowy Days Without Slipping?
According to SHAHEDNEWS, Do not underestimate the risks of slipping on snow and ice when walking on sidewalks, in public places, or entering and exiting your car. Every winter slip can lead to serious injuries, and just one bad fall on ice can have long-term consequences. Therefore, maintaining balance and ensuring safety while moving in these conditions is of utmost importance.
Why is walking on ice difficult?
The main reason for severe falls when walking on ice or snow is the lack of friction between the shoe and the ground. When walking, the contact between your shoe and the ground creates friction, providing the balance needed to move forward. However, the water molecules on icy and snowy surfaces make generating friction nearly impossible, which is why slipping accidents are more common on snowy days.
Common Injuries Related to Walking on Ice and Snow
Concussion from hitting your head on the ground
Bone fractures, wrist injuries, and hip joint dislocations
Spinal fractures (spinal cord injuries)
Muscle strains and ligament sprains
Tips to Prevent Falling on Snow
Wear Appropriate Shoes
Use boots or shoes that are slip-resistant. Walk slowly and be mindful of how your feet are positioned.
Check how to walk
You cannot easily maintain your natural walking style on slippery surfaces, so you need to ensure maximum stability. To achieve perfect balance and walk with ease, follow these tips:
Take short and confident steps. Short steps help you easily assess the depth of snow and ice, making it easier to maintain balance.
Keep your feet close to the ground and avoid spreading them too far apart. This positioning will provide more stability for your body.
Avoid bending your knees forward when walking on icy patches. Instead, try to keep your body upright.
When walking on a snow or ice-covered slope, walk in a straight line. Take one step forward, then move the other foot parallel to it, and continue this way until you reach the top or bottom of the slope. Your feet should not cross each other, as this will make your body very unstable.
Take shorter steps. Shorter steps reduce the forces acting on the ground in both forward and backward directions.
Walk as much as possible on designated walking paths. Avoid taking shortcuts through snow piles or areas prone to snow and ice buildup.
Stay alert
When walking, look ahead and focus on the path you're on to avoid distractions that could lead to accidents or falls. Many people tend to lower their heads during snow or strong winds, which increases the risk of falling because it reduces their ability to spot ice. Walk slowly and stop frequently to pay attention to your surroundings, being mindful of ice and wet leaves.
Avoid texting or using your phone while walking, as much as possible.
Strengthen your muscles to maintain balance
People with weak muscles have difficulty maintaining balance and are more likely to fall on icy or snowy days. Strong muscles are key to maintaining balance. When slipping, the anti-fall muscles contract and help the individual maintain stability. By strengthening these muscles, a person can stay upright during a slip.
To maintain balance, strengthening the muscles of the hips, abdomen, pelvis, and legs, as well as performing balance exercises such as standing on one leg or standing on tiptoes, can be very effective.
