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5 tips on avoiding falls in winter
By Beneva*
It only takes a fraction of a second: your foot slips, you lose your balance and boom… you’re down. Lying on the ice, your bottom and ego both cracked. Is there any way to avoid it?
1. Look out for number one
Don’t try to convince yourself that the snow on your porch will simply blow away like autumn leaves. And don’t wait for spring to melt it all away either, because it’ll be a long winter. Shovel the snow away!
Shoveling your porch, stairs and driveway remains the best way to ensure your safety:
- Cleared surfaces reduce the risk of losing balance and falling.
- Removing snow that hides patches of ice makes them easier to step around.
- Make sure the access is free in case of an emergency.
- Make sure you have good lighting to see where you’re going.
If you’re not able to shovel, then hire a professional service or ask the neighbour’s kid. Your safety is worth a couple of dollars.
2. Get the right treads
Leave your sneakers at home and wear winter boots that are specially designed for winter conditions – rubber soles, wide heals – because they provide comfort, heat and… traction. They’re a must-have for our Canadian winters.
If the look of practical winter footwear doesn’t appeal to you, the traction will!
Buy ice cleats for your boots and keep them handy. They’ll greatly increase your grip and stability. They’re easy to slip on, inexpensive and easy-to-carry. Nothing else comes close to keeping your feet firmly on the ground.
Some boots come with integrated cleats, which are ideal for certain types of surfaces. Find out more.
3. Walk don’t run!
Give yourself more time to get to where you’re going, especially if you plan to walk. A commute that would normally take 30 minutes could take 45 or more, especially if the sidewalks are covered in ice.
If you run out of the house, you increase your chances of slipping and falling. Take your time and look where you leap. Icy patches are not always easy to see.
Beware mischievous sleet! Factor in some time to deice your car locks and doors. Make sure the driveway isn’t too slippery before venturing out. You could slip and hurt yourself.
In winter, wake up a little earlier. If getting out of bed is difficult for you, then regulate your sleep cycle by going to bed and waking up at regular hours.
4. Avoid carrying too much stuff
Distribute weight evenly in your handbags and don’t overfill them. It’s a question of balance.
Don’t carry too many bags at once: make a few trips.
Carrying heavy objects makes you more prone to tripping. So, imagine when you’re carrying them on black ice!
5. Stay in shape
Physical activity is an excellent way to develop and stimulate your body and improve your equilibrium. Stay active throughout the season.
If you love winter, snowflakes, the temperature, your rosy cheeks, then go out there and enjoy it… while being careful.
*Beneva designates Beneva Inc., Financial Services Firm.
