How to prevent slips and falls in the winter

Commuters, pedestrians and dog walkers: watch out for the ice and snow this season while going about your regular routines! As physiotherapists and family doctors know, slips, falls and resultant injuries are not limited to seniors.

Between 2006 and 2015, Toronto Public Health reported over 2,800 hospitalizations and 30,000 visits to the emergency department for patients over the age of 15. The median age was 51, and the median age for those admitted to the hospital was 59.  Most falls were considered urgent or semi-urgent (91%).

A public health report from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, showed the findings from a five year tracking program. Visits to the emergency department were cross-referenced with weather reports, including snowfall and ice. They noted 15 “high-fall” days, with an increase in visits for 18 to 64 year olds between 7 to 10 am, which the report associated with morning routines and commutes. 

Preventing slips and falls

There are several things you can do to help prevent slips and falls, including:

• Take your time. Leave a little extra time to walk more cautiously. Choose a route that’s less icy and better lit, but may not be as direct.
• Take shorter steps and stoop forward slightly if it is slippery. Try to keep your arms free so you can use them for balance. Use a backpack and wear gloves to keep your hands out of your pockets.
• Choose good footwear. Like winter tires on a car, softer soles can grip the surface better.Some soles try to imitate animal paws. Researchers at the University Health Network in Toronto test real winter footwear in a lab with simulated icy conditions and slopes. Their findings and recommendations are available at ratemytreads.com.
• Ice grips on the outside of your footwear can be very helpful, but make sure to take these off before going inside as they can be very slippery on smooth, indoor surfaces. Some winter boots have a built-in mechanism to have the cleats extruded or retracted into the sole of the boot to make this easier.
• Staying fit and strong is always good.During the winter, embrace the season with snow sports and add indoor exercise if that suits you better. Most community centers offer exercise classes, including pool exercises. Some people enjoy group or solo mall walking.

Enjoy winter!

Despite icy conditions, it is possible to make your daily routine safer and enjoy winter, so keep walking and don’t be afraid to get out there. By following the tips above, you’ll lower your risk of injury, making it easier for you to have a fun and safe winter season.

If you would like to speak with a Lifemark clinician, check out our Locations page to find a clinic near you or book online to schedule an appointment at a Lifemark clinic near you.