When the winter starts to settle in, and the ground is all covered with snow, there is nothing in this world that can beat the mesmerizing feeling of enjoying nature's beauty at its best. Where winter can be exceptionally beautiful with snow all around, holiday celebrations, and the snuggling feeling, it can also be a challenging time of the year when it is hard to get out because of the icy surfaces and freezing rain.

We know how exciting and soul-filling it could be to walk outdoors, but it also comes with a threat of slipping. Just one bad fall can cause a lifetime injury that you won't be able to forget for the rest of your life. When it is not possible to always stay indoors, let us count down a few tips that you can keep in mind to stay safe when winter weather strikes.

Choose the right footwear

Wear shoes or boots that fit just right while also keeping you warm inside. Look for the ones with waterproof ability, thick non-slip sole, visible treads, and a flat bottom with a grip so that it provides maximum traction on snow and ice. Avoid shoes with heels or a smooth sole to keep yourself safe from those accidental falls.

Keep track of visibility

When the snow and fog strike in, visibility tends to turn low or even zero. Though walking in the fog could be exciting, there are enough risks that follow. Make sure you layer yourself with bright coloured clothes so that the driver can easily see you. Wear sunglasses to see through the reflective light of the snow.

Plan your route

Recognizing potential danger spots is what you need to stay clear of accidents and falls. Instead of being unaware or unsure of making the next step to anticipate ice or an uneven surface, stay alert and stick to dedicated walkways and using handrails to keep yourself protected from vehicles or other hazards.

 

Avoid using headphones

Hearing the noise of vehicles or approaching traffic is another important thing that you should keep in your mind while heading outdoor that may protect you from unexpected accidents. Avoid listening to music or talking on the phone while walking on the sideways or crossing the road.

Don't rush

Maybe you are late for school or work, but don't rush in either of the cases. Taking shortcuts when you are in a hurry is a good idea but not when there could be melted ice or snow on the ground. Get up early so that you can have plenty of time to reach your destination instead of walking fast when unaware of road conditions. Be sure you walk slow and steady on the pavements and use handrails while walking down steps to stay safe.

Indoor safety

If you think that you can only fall or slip outdoors, you may be wrong. As everyone is walking right through you, there may be melting ice or snow left in entryways that can result in a bad fall. Make sure you use indoor and outdoor mats to shake off the snow before entering to be extra cautious and safe.

 

According to the research, hundreds of people get hospitalized each year due to accidental falls and become victims of disabilities. These tips above may turn out to be useful for you and your loved ones, especially those who cannot sit at home due to school or work. We recommend you to follow these tiny steps to steer clear of the injuries. Stay safe!