Preventing Winter Slips and Falls: Staying Safe When Temperatures Drop

Sadie Carns
2 hours ago
2 min read

Winter brings snow-covered sidewalks, icy parking lots, and wet indoor floors, conditions that significantly increase the risk of slips and falls. Each year, winter weather contributes to thousands of fall-related injuries, many of which lead to emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and long-term loss of independence. Older adults, children, and individuals with mobility challenges are especially vulnerable, but winter falls can affect anyone.

The good news is that many winter slips and falls are preventable with simple planning, awareness, and safety-focused habits.

Why Winter Falls Are So Dangerous

Cold temperatures cause snow and ice to refreeze, creating invisible hazards like black ice. Bulky clothing, reduced daylight, and wet footwear can also throw off balance and reaction time. Falls on hard, frozen surfaces often result in more severe injuries, including:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Hip and wrist fractures
Sprains, strains, and soft-tissue injuries

Simple Steps to Prevent Outdoor Falls

When heading outdoors during winter months:

Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes or boots with non-slip soles. Consider ice cleats or traction devices when walking on snow or ice.
Take slow, small steps: Walk like a penguin, short steps with feet pointed slightly outward, to improve stability.
Use handrails whenever available, especially on stairs and ramps.
Avoid rushing: Leave extra time for travel to reduce the temptation to hurry.
Be alert for black ice, especially on bridges, shaded sidewalks, and parking lots.

Indoor Safety Matters Too

Many winter falls happen indoors after snow and ice are tracked inside:

Remove wet shoes immediately when entering the home.
Use non-slip mats near entryways and in bathrooms.
Keep walkways well-lit, especially stairways.
Clear clutter that could cause tripping, particularly during busy holiday gatherings.

Protecting Older Adults

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and winter conditions only increase that risk. Families and caregivers can help by:

Ensuring walkways and driveways are cleared and salted
Encouraging regular vision and medication reviews
Supporting balance and strength programs, such as fall prevention or exercise classes
Checking that assistive devices like canes or walkers have rubber tips in good condition

If a Fall Happens

If you or someone else falls:

Do not rush to get up if pain or dizziness is present
Seek medical care for head injuries, persistent pain, or loss of consciousness
Report falls to a healthcare provider, even minor falls can signal a higher future risk

A Safer Winter Starts With Prevention

Winter weather doesn’t have to mean winter injuries. By taking proactive steps at home and outdoors, we can reduce the risk of slips and falls and keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe all season long.

For more winter safety resources and fall prevention information, visit atspa.org.

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