Walking on Snow or Ice

Public Safety
Weather Safety
Winter
Walking on Snow or Ice

The Facilities Department remains vigilant and works hard to maintain clear roads and walkways, but there simply will be times when you encounter snowy/icy conditions (for example, melted ice may refreeze over night and cause sporadic locations of slippery walkways). Staying alert, wearing proper winter footwear, and moving carefully will greatly reduce your chances of slipping or falling during the winter season.

Download a poster.

Wear shoes or boots that provide traction and are designed to grip snow or ice.
- Hard, smooth-soled shoes are not designed for walking on such slippery surfaces.
- You can change into your office shoes once you are inside your building.
Wear flat-soled footwear for better stability; avoid footwear with higher heels.
If you do not have footwear with proper slip-resistant soles, then invest in a removable pair of traction devices that provide special gripping for walking on snow and ice, such as Yaktrax. [Remember to remove when entering buildings.]

Bend slightly forward and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over your feet as much as possible.
Keep your hands out of your pockets as this will help you maintain balance.
Be prepared to fall…
- If you fall, try to fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip and shoulder. Avoid using outstretched (elbows locked) arms to brace yourself since this limits your ability to absorb/distribute the impact and instead can result in “jarring” injuries.
- Bend your back and head forward to avoid hitting your head against the ground.

Traffic (vehicle and foot) moves slower in snowy conditions.
Don’t assume a clear path for driving and walking will be available.
Be alert for sudden changes in the condition of your path.

Move slowly when entering and exiting vehicles, climbing or descending stairs, entering or leaving buildings.
Use handrails or your car for support.
Try to keep your center of gravity over your support leg.
Keep your hands out of your pockets as this will help you maintain balance.
Shake off snow/water from shoes when entering buildings.

Don’t take shortcuts over snow piles or areas where snow and ice removal is not feasible.
Look ahead when you walk. A sidewalk completely covered with ice may require travel along its grassy edge for traction.
Don’t text or read while walking.
If you must walk on the road, please do not wear an all-black outfit — this makes you much less visible to drivers.