SUNDAY, Jan. 19, 2003 (HealthDayNews) -- When the weather outside is frightful, falling on ice can be less than delightful.
That's because even a minor fall can be serious, causing broken bones or even worse. Every year, more than 16,000 people -- most of them elderly -- die from falls, according to the National Safety Council.
Making sure your sidewalks and driveways are free of snow and ice is your best line of defense. However, no matter how careful you are, you'll probably still have to walk over some slippery spots during the winter months.
So, make sure you leave yourself enough time to get where you're going -- rushing will only make a fall more likely. Wear shoes or boots that offer traction. Try to avoid shoes with plastic or leather soles. Walk on cleared pathways as much as possible.
If you must walk on ice, shuffle or take small steps to help maintain your balance. Bend slightly forward and walk flat-footed, recommends the department of Environmental Health and Safety at Iowa State University. Also, keep your head forward, so if your feet slip out from under you, you'll be less likely to hit your head on the pavement. Be especially careful when you're getting in and out of the car -- use it for stability.
Finally, be ready for a fall and try not to use your arms to break your fall if you do start to go down.
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips on staying safe outdoors in the winter.
