Walk Like a Penguin and Stay Safe This Winter

Every winter the number of injuries that come from falls increases by more than 10 times. Changes in weather conditions can quickly occur as the temperature drops with snow or freezing rain and ice. Awareness and prevention are the best ways to stop slip and fall accidents during the winter.

To stay safe when walking under slippery conditions this winter take a clue from a bird who knows how to navigate slick, icy surfaces. Penguins use their unique physiology to keep their weight distributed evenly providing stability on slippery surfaces taking, short shuffling steps that decrease chances of falling. You can mimic the skillful maneuvers of a penguin on ice by keeping your center of gravity over your front leg, with your arms free and out to the side to maintain your balance, walking slowly taking short shuffling steps. Keep your feet about a shoulder-width apart, so you can react quickly to a change in traction when walking on an icy or snow covered walkway.

Watch the pathway for slippery surfaces and avoid if unsure. Wear boots or sturdy water-proof shoes with slip-resistant soles for stability. Icy sidewalks, snow-covered curbs, uneven surfaces, and parking lots are common places to slip and fall with some studies showing 25% of ice/snow falls happen in parking lots. Be sure to use caution getting in and out of your vehicle look for unseen patches of clear, black ice on the ground where you'll be stepping.