As the winter season turns to snow and ice, here are some tips for walking safely through the conditions.
Winter attire
- Wear boots and overshoes with grip soles made with rubber and neoprene composite for traction. Avoid shoes with heels or leather and plastic on the soles as these will increase the risk of slipping.
- Consider using removable ice cleats to improve traction, but make sure to remove them before walking indoors on smooth surfaces.
Around vehicles
- Look down when exiting a vehicle, and if there is ice around a parking spot, park in a different place.
- Be careful when getting into or out of a vehicle. Use the car for support.
- Be aware of potential falling snow and ice near parking structures.
Walking
- Walk like a penguin. Take short or shuffling steps and point your feet outwards.
- Keep hands free and outside any pockets to help balance.
- Bend slightly forward and walk flat-footed, centering over your feet.
- Be prepared to fall and avoid using your arms to brace or ease the fall.
- Don’t carry heavy loads, such as boxes or purses, that may swing and contribute to losing balance while walking.
Walkways
- Test the surface to see if it is slick.
- Use handrails if available.
- Don’t step on uneven surfaces such as curbs or slopes. Avoid routes with significant inclines or declines.
- Be aware of snow removal vehicles and equipment.
Stepping inside
- When entering a building, be sure to knock the snow, water and ice off of shoes. Dry the bottom of shoes, and be careful as water and other items on the bottom of shoes can cause falls inside.
- Use indoor skywalks and tunnels for traveling across campus.
Finally, focus on walking – avoid looking at your phone, texting or searching for items in your backpack or purse.
Report any unsafe conditions in parking lots or on sidewalks to the Facilities Help Desk at 402-552-3347.
Complete an incident report for any slips, trips, falls or near-misses that occur on campus.