Every year, Rhode Island gets its fair share of winter snow. While it may be beautiful to look at, it also brings with it icy roads and pathways that many people — including lifelong residents of the state — have difficulty walking on. Fortunately, Karns & Kerrison has some easy tips and tricks to stay safe should you come upon any icy patches this winter, no matter if they are in your own driveway, at an entrance to a restaurant, or dotting city streets.

Our 7 Winter Safety Tips to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls on Ice

Whether you are strolling down a paved pathway or stopping by your family's favorite takeout spot, keep these tips in mind to prevent ice slip and falls:

1. Walk like a penguin on ice. To do so, walk with your arms outside of your pockets and at your sides; proceed slowly, making sure to take small steps and walk flat-footed.
2. Wear snow boots or other footwear that has ample traction on the sole, even if you are just going to take the trash out to the curb.
3. Be mindful of any surfaces that could be slippery, such as stairs, alleyways, driveways, and the like.
4. Keep an eye out for black ice. You can tap your foot on the ground before venturing forth if you are unsure whether black ice is present.
5. Avoid uneven and slippery surfaces as much as possible.
6. Do not carry heavy loads in your arms.
7. Learn how to take a fall. This is one of the most important tips because no matter how many precautions you take, you could very well end up falling anyway.

How to Take a Fall

Slipping and falling on ice can result in minor injuries, like small cuts and bruises, to moderate injuries, like broken bones and dislocated joints, to severe injuries, such as traumatic orthopedic and brain injuries. That being said, when you fall, your head is the most important body part to protect, as a broken arm or leg will heal with time, but a head injury can have long-lasting effects on your health. Thus, when you are falling, make sure to do the following:

• Tuck in your chin;
• Cradle your head with your arms;
• Try to fold your body into itself;
• Do not attempt to break your fall with your hands, as you are likely to break or sprain your wrists if you do so; and
• Roll as you hit the ground to redirect the impact.

Helping Providence Residents Since 1974

Our personal injury attorneys at Karns & Kerrison have fought to protect the rights of injured residents of Providence for almost half a century. Collectively, our attorneys have over 85 years of experience in their legal practice areas and are renowned by peers, clients, and awards organizations.

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