It’s important that everyone recognize the dangers of ice.  Here are helpful hints  to avoid falls when it’s slippery outside!

• Wear boots or shoes with grip soles. Avoid walking in shoes that have smooth surfaces, which increase the risk of slipping.
• Walk thoughtfully. Be alert for black ice. Avoid the temptation to run to catch a bus or beat traffic when crossing a street.
• Your arms help keep you balanced, so keep hands out of pockets, avoid carrying heavy loads – they may cause you to become off balance.
• Walk “small.” Avoid a marching posture. Look to see ahead of where you are about to step. When you step on icy areas, take short, shuffling steps, curl your toes under and walk as flatfooted as possible.
• Remove snow immediately before it becomes packed or turns to ice. Keep your porch stoops, steps, walks and driveways free of ice by frequently applying ice melt or kitty litter. This is the best way to prevent formation of dangerous ice patches. Using a potassium-based melter instead of salt will prevent damage to concrete, grass and other vegetation or to carpets and floors should you track in some.

Keep safe out there!