The National Safety Council estimates that occupational falls account for 1500 deaths each year, and another 300,000 injuries. In light of these staggering figures, it is important to be aware of keeping yourself and your loved ones safe, especially when icy and snowy winter weather makes a dangerous fall all the more likely.
- When attempting to walk on ice or snow, the first step to ensuring safety is to be dressed appropriately—especially when it comes to your footwear! Be sure that you are wearing shoes with good traction, which will help grip the ground under your feet, even if it is more slippery than usual.
- You should walk slowly and take small steps so that you are less likely to lose your balance. Be sure to have both of your hands free and out of your pockets so that you will be able to brace yourself should you slip or fall.
- As much as possible, avoid walkways that are cluttered with debris or have visible ice, snow, or other slippery material. If it is impossible to avoid these areas, extend your foot and tap on a potentially slick area before walking on it so that you can gauge how slippery it really is.
- Should preventative measures fail and you begin to slip or fall, you can reduce the likelihood of injury by rolling with your fall. If possible, try to roll your body backward, rather than forward.
- While you may be scared as you begin your fall, try to relax as much as possible, as this will help prevent muscle strain when you do hit the ground. If you are carrying something, drop whatever is in your hands and use your hands and arms to protect yourself instead.
If you or someone you know needs legal counsel following an injuring slip or fall, contact the Minneapolis slip and fall lawyers of Terry, Slane & Ruohonen, PLLC today at 612-362-0000.
