How To Walk On Ice

The storm last week left a significant coating of ice over everything, and as such, perambulating with or without doggie companions is significantly slipperier that it used to be.  The wise folks at the University of North Dakota felt the need to send to send out the following e-mail to all employees:

Report Icy Conditions to Facilities Management

The weather has caused icy conditions on our parking lots, roads, and sidewalks.  We will continue to salt and sand to reduce the slipperiness as much as possible.  Please report any hazardous conditions to Facilities Management at 777-2591.  There are some things that you can do to help reduce the risk of falling on ice.  Here are some helpful hints.

1. Wear boots or overshoes with grip soles.  Slick leather or rubber soles on dress shoes are unsafe on ice.  

2. Don't walk with your hands in your pockets.  This reduces your balance if you slip on the ice. 

3. Take short to medium steps, or shuffle your feet in very icy areas. 

4. Don't carry or swing heavy loads, such as large boxes or cases, which could cause you to lose your balance when walking. 

5. When walking, curl your toes under and walk as flat-footed as possible. 

6. Don't step on uneven surfaces.  Step well over or avoid curbs with ice on them.  

7. Place your full attention on walking.  Don't allow yourself to be distracted by texting, talking on the phone, getting your keys out of your pocket, etc. while walking on ice.

Paul Clark, Associate Director of Facilities


So if you happen to find yourself in wintry conditions, feel free to follow their advice, it might help keep you off your backside.