Slips and falls in icy conditions are a common problem and can lead to injury, so it is important to take extra care when outside your house and in the local area. Pavements, paths and steps at your home are all at risk of becoming slippery when icy.
To help you stay safe when experiencing cold weather, take a look at our tips for avoiding slips and falls in icy conditions. If you have frozen pipes in your home you can find information on how to deal with that here.
Avoiding slips and falls in cold and icy weather
If you have to go out in icy conditions, you should:
- Think about the best route to your destination and plan on taking a little extra time to get there. Try not to leave yourself a last-minute rush, or take shortcuts where snow or ice removal has not been fully done.
- Wear suitable footwear, for example flat footwear with rubber soles which provide better traction on ice and snow than leather-soled or high-heeled shoes.
- Use handrails where you can. Walking poles or similar are a good makeshift alternative if there are no handrails.
- Take small steps to keep your centre of balance under you, taking care to walk slowly on icy ground.
- Avoid carrying lots of heavy shopping bags, especially on steps.
- Keep both hands free for balance where possible, rather than in your pockets. Wearing gloves can help encourage you to keep your hands out.
- Always be aware of your surroundings, as some places will stay icy for longer than others for example pathways or pavements that do not get the sun.
- Be particularly careful getting into and out of vehicles, and hold on to the vehicle for support.
- Keep paths clear of debris, water, ice and snow.
- Use floor mats when entering a building to remove moisture from the soles of your shoes. This will help protect you, as well as others who follow, from having to walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
- If you have neighbours who are elderly, disabled or just need support, offer to help out if you safely can.
- If councils have provided grit bins so people can treat public areas not included on the usual gritter route, use them - but don't remove large quantities for your own personal use.
Visit Your safety for more information and advice for staying safe in and around your home.