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Tips to help you walk safely in the snow

Island Health suggests moving like a penguin when walking in the snow
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A pedestrian crosses Oak Bay Avenue in the snow on Tuesday, Feb. 12. (Jesse Laufer/News Staff)

Island Health has issued a statement advising residents to exercise extra caution when walking this week.

They’ve provided a list of tips to avoid falling:

• Wear proper fitting, supportive footwear appropriate for the weather

• Keep your centre of gravity over your feet and hands out of your pockets to maintain balance

• Walk slowly, penguin-walk and pay attention to where you are going

• Use handrails when available, especially on steps

• Avoid stepping on ice or snow if possible – or, if you must walk where it’s crunchy if you can

• Use a backpack instead of carrying a purse – this will improve your balance

• Use walking aids (walkers or canes) as ordered for you by a health professional

• Sprinkle sand or salt around your home and on sidewalks to improve traction

Island Health warns senior citizens are at particularly high risk of slips and falls as the snow shifts to ice.

DRIVING TIP: Pretend you have a hot pot of gravy on your lap



jesse.laufer@oakbaynews.com

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