The Sportsphysio.com recommend the use of simple slip over grips to help you walk safely in the ice and snow.
Petzl Spiky Plus snow/ice grips
Hospital emergency departments are being inundated with casualties, injured by slipping on the pavements and roads.
Carlisle City recorded a minimum temperature last night of -15 degrees and the weather does not look like improving any time soon.
Steady snow fall over the last two weeks and freezing temperatures below -7 degrees Celsius means that grit on roads and pavements will be ineffective.
We have found these simple, slip on overshoes which enable the wearer to walk on snow and even black ice in relative safety. The Sportsphysio.com trialled a pair of the Petzl Spiky Plus last year and were amazed by their simplicity of use and effectiveness. We particularly liked this brand because they are just as effective in snow as they are on ice.
Other snow/ice overshoes
A slightly less effective alternative but useful in extreme cases, is to put socks (natural fibre) over your shoes.
Safe footwear
Shoes or boots designed for walking, such as those found in mountain equipment shops, have deep treads and specially developed soles. These will offer some degree of grip in snow.
Walking boots rather than shoes will give support to the ankle joint, limiting damage from sprains and strains.
Fashion shoes are not designed for use on snow and ice and appart from the fact that they give no grip, their thin soles and uppers offer no warmth. When the muscles of the foot are cold, the flexibility and mobility of the foot will diminish, making us more likely to slip.
Warm , thick socks made from thermal and natural fibres will help to maintain warmth in the foot, two thinner pairs worn together will trap air between them helping to keep feet warmer.
Use walking poles
The sort we see all the holiday makers with in the lake district, have a tungsten grip at the end of the pole. They are relatively easy to carry about and may give you a little more stability in slippy areas. They allow us to have four limbs on the ground instead of two.
Warm clothing
Lots of layers are key to keeping warm; a good thick coat, hat and gloves will keep out the worst of the cold.
If you are out in the dark, some sort of reflective clothing will be useful. DO NOT walk in the road and always be aware that drivers may not be able to see you and are less likely to be able to stop quickly.
Don’t be caught out
If you rely on public transport or even your car, be aware that both can let you down at this time of year. Always make sure you have warm clothing, good walking shoes or boots and the relevant equipment with you on your journey.
Motorists can find out more information on the AA website.
Charge up your mobile phone and let people know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Leave plenty of time and only go out if you need to. Stay warm and safe!
