IBC Top 10: Tips to avoid slips, trips and falls

HALIFAX, Feb. 19, 2015 /CNW/ - This winter's extreme amounts of snow in much of Atlantic Canada, along with freezing and thawing cycles, pose a hazard to people trying to get around on slippery sidewalks, driveways and walkways. Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reminding pedestrians to take care and is encouraging homeowners to take steps to help ensure their properties are safe.

"This winter has been particularly tough on families across Atlantic Canada, given the significant amount of snow and cold temperatures," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "Every year, this weather leads to slip-and-fall accidents that can cause serious injuries. We all have a role to play in helping keep sidewalks, driveways and walkways as clear as possible."

IBC's Top 10 tips to avoid slips, trips and falls while walking on snow or ice are:

1.  Wear sturdy footwear with a good grip.

• You can always change into other shoes when you reach your destination.

2.  Walk slowly and take short, deliberate steps.

• Allow yourself extra time to get from A to B, so you don't need to make a last-minute dash.

3.   Avoid walking with your hands in your pockets.

• Keeping your hands free helps with balance.

4.   Avoid areas with poor lighting.

• Be aware that black ice can look like wet pavement.

5.   Use handrails on stairs, so you can catch yourself if you slip.

6.   Use special care when entering or exiting vehicles.

7.   Keep walkways clear of debris, water, ice and other slippery materials whenever possible.  

8.   Push the snow rather than lift it when shovelling.

• If you must throw snow, take only as much as you can easily lift, and bend with your knees, not your back.

9.   Try to shovel your driveway and sidewalk right away after a snowfall, before it gets packed down.

• Lighter loads are easier on your back and arms.

10.  Salt or place sand on your front steps, driveway and sidewalk.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.  

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Atlantic or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2-ASK-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

To schedule an interview, please contact: Celyeste Power, Manager, Media Relations, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312 (office), 647-384-9872 (after hours), [email protected]