The cold winter months can be bleak and unrelenting. Old Man Winter has already reared his ugly head this season causing cold, snowy, blustery and icy conditions. While a landscape coated in a fresh blanket of snow can be very beautiful, it can also be extremely dangerous, and even deadly. Approximately 1 million Americans are injured each year as a result of falling on ice and snow, and according to the CDC, around 17,000 of these falls result in fatalities.
When you’re going to be outside, there are several steps that you can take to avoid sliding or falling during the slippery winter months:
- Pay attention and be aware of the surfaces around you and ahead of you.Choose winter shoes with rubber soles to maintain traction, or winterize your shoes and boots with removable crampons.
- Plan ahead, avoid rushing, and give yourself plenty of time to get where you are going.
- Wear gloves to keep your hands warm and out of your pockets to provide better stability.
- Don’t get distracted by trying to text or talk on a cell phone while walking in dangerous, icy conditions.
- Be sure to keep your driveways and walkways cleared, shoveled and treated with ice melt or kitty litter.
An additional way to stay safe this winter when you have to trek out into the snow or ice involves some waddling. Yes, you read that right. You’re encouraged to walk or waddle like a penguin, and share these tips widely! Learn how to strut your penguin stuff with Mount Nittany Health and the Penn State Curling Team:
- Bend your knees slightly and point your feet slightly outward (like a penguin)
- Walk flat-footed
- Keep your center of gravity over your feet as much as possible
- Shuffle your feet and take short steps
- Keep your arms at your sides and not in your pockets
- Concentrate on keeping your balance
- Move slowly and give yourself extra time
Waddling like a penguin may look silly, but it is a better alternative to falling and hurting yourself on the ice. This winter, Mount Nittany Health and the Penn State Curling Team encourage you to stay safe and walk like a penguin!