During the snowy and icy winter conditions, LSC would like to remind everyone to be safe while on campus. No matter how well the snow and ice are removed from sidewalks and parking lots, people may encounter some slippery surfaces when walking outdoors in winter. It calls for planning, caution and a little common sense:
- Select appropriate footwear – flat footwear with rubber soles provides better traction on ice and snow than leather-soled or high-heeled shoes.
- Take your time and don’t rush.
- Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets.
- Avoid taking shortcuts over areas where snow and ice have not been removed.
- Be careful getting into and out of vehicles. Hold onto the vehicle for support.
- Be sure to use floor mats when entering a building to remove moisture from the soles of your shoes. This will help protect you, as well as others who follow, from having to walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
Did you know there is a better way to walk on ice?
- Walk like a penguin – Spread and angle your feet outward to broaden your base. This makes it harder to fall. Bend your knees to lower your center of gravity. Put your arms out to your sides for balance.
- Do the slow shuffle – If you don’t like to waddle like a penguin, keep your feet about a foot apart, and take small, shuffling steps, aligning your feet after each step. Keep your pace slow.
Take stair steps one at a time and use the handrail. - Fall the right way – If you are about to go down, lean forward so the back of your head and spine don’t hit the pavement. Try and fall on your thigh, hip and shoulder, not on your easily broken arms, knees, wrists or spine. Try and relax your muscles as you fall, you’ll be less likely to get hurt.
Parking lots and sidewalks will be cleared in the order listed in the Snow Removal Checklist.
Safe Winter Walking Tips
