Ice Survival Tips
MILWAUKEE–Ice creates picturesque winter scenery. But when ice coats roads, sidewalks and power lines, it creates a dangerous situation.
“Of the more than 1M injuries in the U.S. caused by falls, the most common type of fall is the slip and fall frequently caused by ice,” said Martin B. Tirado, CAE, CEO of the Snow & Ice Management Association. “Depending on the severity, these injuries may change the quality of life for the injured person.”
In addition to fall injuries, ice has residual effects such as loss of power, road closures, car accidents, fallen trees and impassible sidewalks. Melting and freezing conditions also can create (and recreate) icy conditions long after the initial storm ends.
SIMA, the North American nonprofit organization representing snow and ice removal professionals, has these tips on surviving a wintery ice storm.
- TIP #1: Wear the right shoes. While fashion is great, in ice be careful about high heels or slick soled loafers in ice. The right shoes to navigate ice place the entire foot on the surface of the ground and have visible, heavy treads and a flat bottom.
- TIP #2: Anticipate the ice. Be weary of black ice–thin sheets of ice that may appear as wet pavement. Black ice is often the result of ice melting and refreezing in thin layers. The repeat pattern is related to the time to day–ice appears in the morning as you are on your way to school or work, melts during the day, and it refreeze as the sun sets. Be particularly careful in shady spots.
- TIP #3: Plan ahead. While walking on icy sidewalks or parking lots, walk consciously. Anticipate where your next step will be and be particularly cautious when stepping off a curb, using steps, or getting into a car, since shifting your weight causes an imbalance that may result in a fall.
Following these tips will help ensure that you survive an ice safely. For more snow and ice tips, visit SIMA.