As winter continues in Pennsylvania, you may see more snow and ice in the forecast. When you have spent the last few months dealing with slippery surfaces, you may start to feel more comfortable walking around. But if you’re not careful, you may find yourself falling in front of a store or in a parking lot.
Slipping on the ice can cause you severe injuries that can prevent you from working. When owners of public spaces don’t properly clear away snow and ice, they can put you in danger. Here are a few tips for staying safe on ice:
- A layer of snow can deceive you. When others compact it down, it can turn as slippery as ice. Try to avoid any layers of packed snow.
- When the temperature is low, surfaces that appear to be wet can be slick. If you can avoid these areas, you may prevent falling and hurting yourself.
- Just because you can’t see the ice doesn’t mean it isn’t there. You may be walking along a paved parking lot and slip on a patch of black ice.
- Try to wear shoes that give you traction on slippery surfaces. A good grip may help keep you upright, even if you walk on ice.
- If you can’t avoid ice, walk slowly with short steps. Walking normally or rushing will only increase your risk of injury.
The owners of public stores and commercial parking lots usually have a responsibility to clear away ice and snow as soon as they can. But if they don’t, they may leave slick spots in public places.
When you go to work or go out shopping, you may find yourself at risk of slipping on these icy patches. While you may not be able to prevent falling, being mindful of the risks may help you avoid a serious injury.