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Practice defensive walking 

Just as it’s important to practice defensive driving in the winter, it’s important to practice defensive walking to avoid falls on snow and ice.

  • Allow for extra time to reach your destination so you don’t feel rushed.
  • Wear winter boots that fit well and have a thick, non-slip tread, and wide, low heels.
  • Be extra careful getting into and out of a car. Hold onto the door frame (not the door itself) to steady yourself.
  • Assume that all wet, dark areas on pavement are slippery.
  • Avoid carrying things that can cause you to be unbalanced.

Walk like a penguin 

If you encounter an icy or slippery surface, be sure to:

  • Point your feet out slightly like a penguin.
  • Bend slightly and walk flat-footed (take short steps or shuffle) with your center of gravity directly over your feet as much as possible.
  • Extend your arms out to your sides to keep your balance

Based on information from the Canada Safety Council.