While we cannot avoid winter conditions entirely, we can make an effort to minimize risks and avoid injuries by practicing the following safety guidelines from the National Safety Council.
Walking
- Spot icy areas before exiting your vehicle.
- Maintain three points of contact – three of your four limbs in contact with the vehicle or the ground at all times – when exiting a vehicle.
- Stay on treated sidewalks as much as possible.
- Step down, not out, from curbs.
- Wear footwear that provides good traction.
- The Farmers’ Almanac suggests learning to walk like a penguin to stay safe on ice:
- Keep your center of gravity over your feet as much as possible.
- Keep your knees relaxed and point your feet out slightly.
- Shuffle your feet and take slow, short steps, walking flat-footed.
- Watch where you are stepping.
- Keep your hands free and out of your pockets for balance.
Driving
- Test your battery power and tire pressure; both can drop as the temperature drops.
- Check your wiper blades and replace if needed.
- Add wiper fluid rated for -30 degrees.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid having a gas line freeze.
- Monitor the weather forecast and give yourself extra time if snow or freezing rain is predicted.
- Keep up with vehicle maintenance and always keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
