Whether it’s the edge of a swimming pool in the summer, or black ice in the winter. Regardless of the weather, it is important to exercise caution when you’re walking to avoid slips, trips & falls. Respect Gravity! Heed these safety tips to ensure you don’t get hurt.
Wear proper (weather-appropriate) footwear
- Wear treaded soles or water-shoes when you’re around pools or anywhere you will encounter swimmers.
- Hikers should wear proper-fitting, water-resistant heavy-treaded boots or hiking shoes. Ankle-height boots prevent ankle sprains.
- At home, avoid the temptation to wear just socks, as they create a slipping risk. If you insist on socks alone, make sure they have rubberized soles.
- In snow and ice, wear boots with thick, textured treads that grip the ground, giving you the best traction.
Whenever possible, leave wet shoes outside the home
The moisture from shoes may drip onto your floors, creating a slippery situation. Use floor mats anywhere there is outdoor-to-indoor foot traffic.
Watch where you’re walking
- If you see a potentially hazardous situation, walk AROUND it.
- Exercise caution when entering the street to dodge an icy sidewalk or a slippery poolside. Weigh your options. Choose the safest path.
Declutter your home and floors
Keep all walking surfaces free from unnecessary stuff. These can easily become trip hazards.
Avoid loose-fitting clothing and tie your shoes
If you’re not walking on top of clothing or laces, you’re less likely to trip over them.
Make sure you can see where you’re going
- Have sufficient lighting wherever you go – this is especially important in hallways, stairways, and entrances.
- If you’re outside, have a flashlight handy for places with inadequate lighting.
Use non-slip mats on surfaces that may become slippery when wet. This is especially important poolside.
This includes:
- entryways
- kitchen floors
- bathroom floors
- bathtubs
- shower stalls
- swimming pools
If you decide to use area rugs or mats, ensure they are properly adhered to the floor, otherwise they can become a trip hazard.
Take your time to avoid injury, which costs both time and money
Life can put us in a rush, but taking a few extra minutes (even seconds) to watch your step can save time and money in the long run.
This season, there are many things you can do to avoid slips, trips and falls. Keep this season a safe one!
But if you should find yourself injured as a result of a fall, call on us to help set things straight. If you’re injured in a slip, trip or fall, contact us today.