Tips for Staying Safe on the Ice This Winter…

How many times have you been walking on the ice and thought, "Oh man, I think I am going to fall!"

Last winter, I did just that at my daughter’s school. Down I went on the ice, and the next thing I knew, I had a throbbing headache and a concussion! Not a good way to end your week!

So, if you find yourself slipping, remember to “tuck and roll." (www.today.com)

If you feel yourself losing balance, tuck into a ball, make yourself as small as possible and keep your head and face away from the fall, experts say. Don't put out your hands to catch yourself, or you'll risk breaking your arms or wrists. (According to my daughters, I was airborne, and landed flat on my back, ouch!) Try to land on a fleshy part of your body rather than your knees or spine.

Try this proven way to avoid a painful fall on the ice: Walk like a penguin. The waddle keeps your center of gravity over your front leg and will help keep you upright. Spread your feet out slightly, to increase your center of gravity, and take small steps.

Try to keep your hands out of your pockets while walking — that decreases your center of gravity and balance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You need your arms for balance.

It seems like common sense, but here are some tips for walking safely in winter weather from the University of Utah and Iowa State University:

Allow plenty of time to get to your destination.
Wear shoes and boots with good traction.
Walk slowly.
Stay on designated walkways.
Use the handrail when using stairs and entering and exiting buildings.

Be careful and be safe on the ice!