Winter is one of the prettiest times of the year. Unfortunately, it can lead to plenty of accidents and injuries if not treated with caution. This is especially true when snow melts and refreezes in patches of slick ice, which pose a threat to pedestrians and cars alike. So, what can you do to prevent these injuries this winter? Read on for some tips and tricks to keep yourself safe in the cold.
- Pay Close Attention. Whether you’re walking down the sidewalk or down a flight of stairs, pay close attention to where you’re stepping. Stick to well-lit areas as often as possible to better illuminate the path in front of you.
- Walk Deliberately. When walking on the snow or ice, it’s almost instinctual to take smaller, more deliberate steps. Lean into that instinct and don’t try to hurry along your way. Progress may be slow, but you’ll be more confident and stable on your feet.
- Keep Your Hands Free. Carrying packages across the icy driveway or stuffing your hands in your pockets may seem perfectly fine. However, this can throw off your balance and prevent you from catching yourself if you should take a tumble. Keep your hands out and use them to balance as needed.
- Dress for the Weather. This goes without saying, but dress to take on cold weather. Not only will a sturdy pair of boots assist in making your way across treacherous surfaces, but the heavy material of winter clothing will provide additional padding if you should fall to the ground.
- Prevent What You Can. Do your part to make sure that you and your family stay safe this winter. Stay aware of the possible conditions, keep an eye on the forecast, and don’t rush. If you can get ahead of the weather, then you’ll be well on your way to preventing accidents and injuries down the road.
Of course, even with all this preparation, accidents happen. Slips and falls can be painful and knock your skeleton out of alignment. If you’re in the Greenville area, we encourage you to visit us here at Wirth Chiropractic. Contact us and schedule an appointment today!
