Tips for Safe Winter Walking

1. Invest in Quality Winter Boots

In the Great White North, proper footwear is your first line of defense. Opt for winter boots with insulation, a waterproof exterior, lightweight design, and a robust non-slip treaded sole. This combination ensures a secure grip on snow-covered surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

2. Ice Grippers: Traction for Icy Terrains

For those traversing exclusively on ice and snow, ice grippers provide essential traction. However, exercise caution when using them on bare pavement, as they can become extremely slippery. Sit down to put them on, and wear them only in snowy conditions to prevent accidents.

3. Bring Support Along

If concerns about slips and falls linger, consider additional support. Canes, available at most pharmacies, can be equipped with attachments designed to grip and break through snow and ice. Walkers, specially adapted for winter conditions, offer stability. Hip protectors, featuring a thick foam pad, provide cushioning to minimize the risk of hip injuries.

4. Navigate Snowbanks with Care

In Canadian cities, snow removal often results in towering snowbanks, limiting visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Approach cautiously, ensuring no oncoming cars and verifying that drivers can see you before proceeding.

5. Exercise Caution at Crosswalks

Winter weather amplifies road hazards, and cars may struggle to stop on icy surfaces. Before crossing, confirm that all vehicles have come to a complete stop. Never assume cars will yield, taking a few extra seconds to ensure safe passage.

Between 1989 and 2009, nearly 9,000 pedestrians lost their lives, and hundreds of thousands sustained injuries in road collisions across Canada. Transport Canada’s analysis of pedestrian collisions during this period uncovered a staggering statistic – 60% of the pedestrians fatally injured in traffic crashes were in the process of crossing the road.