When the brisk fall air gives way to winter’s chill, snow may often follow, transforming the landscape into a sparkling silver tapestry.

But the beauty of the season could be misleading— underneath this idyllic scenery may lie hidden risks for slips and falls due to slick ice or packed-down snow. And while those over the age of sixty-five may be more prone to injury as a result, these incidents can be potentially dangerous for anyone. Take these preventative actions to help reduce the likelihood of such events and keep your mind at ease all season long.

Grab your garb

Invest in proper footwear
Take the first stepping stone on the route to a safer winter by tending to your feet. Primarily, you should always wear shoes with deep treads and rubber soles, which will provide better grip and stability on icy terrain. If you live somewhere particularly prone to inclement weather, consider investing in a strong pair of boots that feature cleated bottoms, waterproof fabrics, and ankle support. Whatever footwear you opt for, make sure it fits tightly to prevent your feet from sliding around inside. And as soon as your shoes or boots show signs of significant wear and tear or the traction on the bottoms begins to deteriorate, you’ll want to replace them so they don’t become a liability.

Utilize assistive tools
For people with mobility and balance concerns, such as seniors and those with previous knee or ankle injuries, using walkers or canes can help you stay steady and lower your risk of falling; the former can provide better weight distribution compared to other walking aids, while the latter offers extra support when navigating stairs. For either variety, select an option with an adjustable height for ideal posture and balance as well as robust rubber feet for enhanced snow and ice traction. You could even get separate spiked tips to attach to the feet when transitioning outside. And remember to always hold on to any railings when available, especially if you do not have your walker or cane handy.

Fortify your fortress

Shovel and salt
Take charge of your house’s surroundings to help you, your family, and any guests avoid danger. Thoroughly shovel your driveway and walking paths after each snowfall, paying extra attention to stairs and other uneven surfaces. Since steps may be especially hazardous, make sure they are framed with strong handrails on both sides, and consider adding anti-slip tape for extra traction. In addition, regularly apply salt or melting agents to prevent ice from forming and creating a treacherous surface. Just take care to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application to avoid damaging your walkways or vegetation.

Secure the perimeter of your house
To counter the gloomy darkness that winter brings, make sure your walkways, stairs, and doors are brightly illuminated; better visibility will let you navigate uneven surfaces or icy sections safely. This could involve merely leaving your outside lights on during late evenings if you plan to go in and out of your home, or you could install motion-sensor or solar-powered lights for greater simplicity and energy efficiency.

You should also periodically check your house for hazards, such as icicles dangling from eaves or a leaky gutter dripping water over a path, forming an ice patch. Clear the first with the help of a roof rake, and patch the second with gutter sealant as soon as you spot it. And, of course, there’s always the option of hiring a professional to take care of any issues and better guarantee your safety when it comes to outdoor winter risks.

Building balance

Stay active
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good balance, a key factor in avoiding falls during wintertime. Focus on building strength, especially in your legs, to help you stay stable and supported when walking on icy ground. Aim for thirty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise daily, perhaps taking advantage of the beauty the season brings by adopting a new winter hobby. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating are all low-impact options that can strengthen legs and ankles to improve coordination and agility. Not feeling all that adventurous? Don’t underestimate the power of daily walks!

Prioritize your health and well-being
In addition to exercising, attending to your personal health can fortify your strength to keep your fall and injury risk low. To start, make sure you are getting enough sleep; if you are tired, your coordination and reaction time will slow, making you less able to catch yourself if you do slip. Also, eat plenty of fruits, veggies, and nutrient-dense meals to help energize your body and support your bone health, which worsens with age. And don’t forget to drink water, an oftentimes ignored factor. Staying hydrated combats dizziness and lightheadedness that can impair balance and judgment.

Take more control of your safety this winter by making these easy but impactful changes to your everyday routine. Through such proactive measures against slips and falls, you can better set yourself up to enjoy the cozy months the way you are meant to: with health and happiness.