When it comes to winter in Springfield, MO it is like buying a box of chocolates; you never know what you are going to get.
Will we get snow? Will we get ice? Will we get both?
We all remember the January 12, 2007 Ice storm like it was yesterday BUT it is important to refresh your memory every year on how to handle yourself on icy paths and walkways.
According to Kassidy Emmerson, one out of twenty people fall on ice or snow every year and need emergency care. Family Medical Walk-In Clinic wants everyone to be safe this winter, so we have put together helpful tips to help you get through this winter accident free!
When walking on ice or snow:
- Wear boots or shoes with traction on the bottom. Boots made with non-slip rubber or neoprene with grooved soles are best.
- Pay attention & don’t rush yourself.
- Be aware of the different possibilities of ice (black ice, ice under snow, etc.) It is best to assume all wet, dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy.
- Balance yourself with your arms- take your hands out of your pockets!
- Spread your feet out, then shuffle your feet and walk as flat footed as possible. Like a penguin shuffle!
- Don’t take shortcuts around snow piles. Stay on the beaten path and always look ahead.
- Wear a big heavy coat that will cushion you if you should fall.
- Never be afraid to ask for someones help while walking on ice.
We have provided a few links that display effective snow/ice walking boots:
- http://www.the-perfect-present.com/Pages_Yaktrax/winter_walking_aids_shoes.html
- http://www.polarcleats.com/
- http://www.winterwalking.com/?gclid=CPWdtcH8-54CFRshnAod1WRkKg
When falling on snow or ice:
According to the National Safety Council nearly 16,000 Americans die every year due to serious falls.
Sandra Gimpel, who is a 3rd degree black belt Karate instructor and professional stunt woman, says “It takes less than two seconds from the moment you slip until you hit the ground.” Gimpel says knowing how to fall correctly will help you reduce the risk of injury.
When you feel yourself start to fall, you should:
- Tuck your body.
- Keep your head up.
- Don’t put your hands out to catch yourself.
- If you feel yourself starting to fall, try to relax and roll as much as possible. This will help lessen the impact of your fall and may prevent you from breaking a bone.
How to: Not Fall on Snow/Ice- Videos!
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fbb3631ew_4
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfxwXhzV3dg
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TTEowbok1w
In case you fall and need non-emergent medical care, we can help! Call 417-890-5550 today!
Sources:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2105063_walk-ice.html
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1373195/tips_on_how_to_walk_safely_outside.html
http://www.iwif.com/PDFs/Safety%20Tips/Walking%20Safely%20on%20Ice.pdf
http://www.senioryears.com/fallsart.html
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