Outdoor Winter Walking

Outdoor winter walking hazards created by a fresh dusting of snow and below-freezing temperatures create greater risks for slip and fall injuries. Use caution when walking on sidewalks, through parking areas, and using outdoor stairways. Stay safe in the winter outdoors whether at home, work, or while outdoors enjoying all Alaska winters have to offer.

Outdoor Winter – To and From Your Home or Workplace

Always use handrails and other secure objects to brace yourself when stepping onto a potentially slippery surface. Use ice melt to keep the walkway surrounding your home clear of ice. A pair of ice cleats that attach to your footwear can be a huge help to preventing a slip and fall injury. Ice and traction cleats are removable, but having a spare pair of shoes to walk through buildings is helpful for those who don’t want to put cleats on and off their boots or shoes.

Prepare For Slippery Conditions

When outdoor winter walking through neighborhoods or along public trails, it’s a good idea to bring a walking stick or trekking poles. Increasing your traction and overall stability during the winter months is very important to avoid slipping and falling.

Walk more slowly than usual and take shorter steps to avoid your feet slipping on ice. Never run across an icy, wet, or snowy area. Be cautious and step carefully across potentially slippery places.

Keep your hands out of your pockets in case you do slip and fall. Having your hands at your sides increases your chances of breaking your fall or catching yourself and softening your impact. Wear gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm.

Hiking the Winter Outdoors

Outdoor Winter Walking in Alaska can be very rewarding, even in the cold. Hiking during Alaska’s winter months is not unusual. Many residents enjoy the outdoors year-round. When hiking in cold weather, it’s important to keep in mind the various risks and potential hazards.

Make a plan and be prepared for potential weather changes and adjustments to your trip. Always tell someone where you’re going, the route you intend to take, and when you intend to return. In the event of an injury or an accident, it’s important for someone to know where you’ll be so help can find you if needed.

If this is your first outdoor winter walking hike during winter, don’t push your limits. Try a test hike that won’t be particularly difficult to complete. This gives you the opportunity to gauge how you respond to the winter weather and to test your hiking equipment, such as a new GPS device or new boots.

Prepare Before Hiking

Remember to wear warm layers of clothing under an outer jacket to protect from the elements, such as wind or snow. Keep your feet warm and dry with appropriate socks and footwear. Always bring spare gloves, a hat, and socks in case your first set get wet. Pack an emergency kit with a space blanket, and extra food and water, in the event you’re outdoors longer than anticipated.

Stay safe while winter outdoor walking and enjoying all Alaska has to offer. Watch for Alaskan wildlife such as moose and caribou. Always carry bear spray when hiking during all months, regardless of whether bears are believed to be hibernating. Wildlife can be unpredictable, much like the weather in Alaska. Natural hazards, such as avalanches or mudslides, are also important to be aware of. Before hiking in the hills or mountains it’s a good idea to review local weather forecasts and bulletins detailing current risks in that area.

Steps To Take Following A Winter Outdoors Slip And Fall Injury

Slipping and falling on ice can lead to serious injuries. Head injuries, herniated disks, and fractured bones are common injuries arising from slip and fall accidents. If you fall this winter, don’t delay seeing your primary care physician. The sooner you’re able to see a doctor, the sooner you’ll be able to get the appropriate treatment to heal your injuries.

If you’re able to, take pictures of the area you fell and write down exactly what happened leading to your fall. If possible, ask all witnesses to write a statement and leave contact information. Ask the surrounding homes or businesses if they have outdoor cameras that may have recorded your fall.

This piece on Outdoor Winter Walking Safety is the second of a nine-part winter safety series. See our safety tips for Keeping Kids Safe and Warm; Home Heating Safety; Cold Weather Vehicle Safety; Driving in Ice and Snow; Snowmachine Safety; Removing Ice and Snow Safely; and Surviving Extreme Cold.

Johnson & Associates has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Secondary Sources: OSHA; Alpine Fit

Image Source: Alpine Fit