Safety reminders Published March 4, 2008 By Safety office Scott AFB, Ill. -- WINTER SLIP & FALL SAFETY TIPS: It's that time of year when slips and falls occur at an increasing rate. Here is some good advice on being aware of your surroundings during the winter months and ways to prevent slips and falls: How to Prevent it- · Wear the proper foot gear; shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. · Take small steps to keep your center of balance under you. · Walk slowly and never run on icy ground. · Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets. · Use handrails from start to finish. · Avoid carrying loads on stairways; or carry light weight loads that you can see over. · Keep your eyes on where you are going. · Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them. · Step - Don't jump from vehicles and equipment; use the vehicle for support. · Keep walkways clear of ice. · Plan ahead; give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. · Ensure that organizations and units are removing ice/snow from sidewalks. When these helpful hints don't work, and you know you are going to slip, try to reduce your injury when falling by: · Try to roll with the fall. Twist and roll backwards, rather than falling forward. · Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall. · Toss the load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects you are carrying.