01/27/2026
Slipping on ice is a very common cause of injuries—especially wrist, hip, and knee injuries—so a little strategy goes a long way. Here are practical, evidence-based tips to help you stay upright and reduce injury risk:
🥾 What to Wear
• Footwear with traction: Choose boots with rubber soles (not smooth or hard plastic). Deep tread helps.
• Add ice cleats or traction spikes if sidewalks or parking lots are icy—these make a huge difference.
• Warm, flexible clothing so your movement isn’t restricted.
🚶 How to Walk on Ice
• Short, flat steps – think “penguin walk”
• Keep your feet slightly turned out
• Take small, shuffling steps
• Slow down – rushing is the biggest risk factor
• Keep your center of gravity over your front leg
• Hands out of pockets so you can balance
• Eyes forward, scanning for glossy or darker patches (often black ice)
🧍 Posture & Balance
• Slightly bend your knees to lower your center of gravity
• Engage your core (gentle abdominal tension improves balance)
• Use handrails whenever available—even if you normally wouldn’t
🧊 Smart Navigation
• Walk on snow-covered areas rather than shiny ice when possible (snow provides friction)
• Be extra cautious:
• At curbs
• Near cars (melt/refreeze zones)
• On bridges and shaded areas
• Test questionable surfaces by lightly tapping your foot first
🤕 If You Do Slip
• Try to fall to the side, not straight backward or forward
• Tuck your chin to protect your head
• Avoid instinctively throwing your hands straight out—this is how wrists break
🧠 Extra Preventive Tips
• Carry a small bag of sand or salt in your car
• Consider a walking stick or trekking poles in very icy conditions
• Regular balance and leg-strength exercises (like single-leg stands) reduce fall risk
