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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

Winter Walking Safety Tips


Ah, the first snowfall in the Rochester area has arrived. The familiar phrases “lake effect storm warnings” and “watch for icy conditions” were spoken on local radio and television stations. I think you can say that winter is here. I’m not going to bore you with statistics, but slips and falls are the highest reported injury at MCC.

Here are a few tips to make the winter weather a little safer.

Plan ahead. Give yourself sufficient time and plan your route.


Wear shoes or boots that provide the proper traction on snow and ice. Avoid high-healed shoes and also plastic or leather soles.

Take small steps or shuffle to keep your center of balance under you.


Walk slowly and never run on icy ground.


Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets.


Use handrails on stairs from start to finish.


Avoid carrying loads on stairways; or carry loads that you can see over.


Keep your eyes on where you are going.


Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.


Step - Don't jump from vehicles and equipment. Use the vehicle for support.

Finally, when entering a building, remove snow and water from footwear to prevent creating wet slippery conditions indoors. Indoor floor mats can only collect so much water. When they are saturated, the water will stay with your shoes for several feet past the floor mats.  Don’t assume that because you are indoors the floor won’t be slippery.

I wish you a safe and enjoyable winter!

Martin Gilmore
Safety/Hazard Prevention
12/02/2009