Avoiding Winter Slips & Falls

While going for walks in the winter-time is a great way to get some fresh air, make sure you are not only checking the weather for safety but also look at the ground conditions too. Slips and falls are common in winter climate regions due to snow and ice.  Slips are technically a loss of balance caused by not having enough friction between your feet and the surface you walk on, regardless if you’re inside or outside.  

To make sure you’re staying safe when walking around in wet, snowy, icy conditions, here are some great tips to think about for preventing slips and falls this winter.

1. Take short steps on slippery surfaces whether indoors or outdoors, this helps to maintain your balance. Walk slowly and tap the ball of your foot on potential wet areas to see if the area is slippery.
2. Slow down, slips are most likely to occur when rushing or in a hurry. That also means take care when getting in and out of a vehicle.
3. Clean up spills right away. If surfaces are damp or remain wet, mark the area with signs when possible.
4. Pay attention and watch where you are going, particularly in icy/snowy conditions. This way you’ll be able to notice black ice or uneven surfaces.
5. Winter foot-wear is important. Wear proper shoes/boots with non-slip soles or grips for boots that have metal spikes to be used when doing outdoor activities.
6. Some prescription medicines are well known for side effects such as light headedness and feeling faint, which can easily lead to a fall. Speak to your Doctor or Pharmacist if this is something you’d be concerned about.

If you do fall, bruises can be a common consequence. To help treat bruising don’t’ forget the RICE principle: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

Also WebMD recommends using natural ingredients such as Arnica and Witch Hazel to speed healing and reduce inflammation. You can find both of those ingredients, plus a hint of menthol to sooth bruised skin in our Zax’s Original Bruise Cream.

Written by Alyssa Rolnick, Co-Founder of Zax’s Original Products, Registered Dietitian and Mother of a very busy household.