Walk Like a Penguin - 5 Tips for Staying Safe in Icy Weather

It is the return of winter in Naperville, and people are being swept off their feet, literally. While we can take solace in the fact that the solstice is just ahead of us, bringing ever so slightly longer days, it looks like the cold temperatures and ice are going to be with us for some time. As unpleasant as the cold is, the ice can be downright dangerous. I personally know an individual who fell on the ice several years ago, breaking not one but both of her wrists. Bad as it was, for some people a fall on the ice can be fatal. With that in mind here are some helpful hints to be safe this winter:
1) Avoid shoes that have smooth surfaces. Wear boots with good soles. 
2) Watch where you are going! Although it seems self-evident, we don't always keep our eyes where we are stepping. Try to keep in the salted areas. 
3) Take short, careful steps, keeping the center of gravity above your foot (like a penguin!)  “Black ice,” a thin glaze that forms over pavement and asphalt may not be easy to see, but if you step slowly you may feel it before you fully place your weight on it.
4) Don't walk with arms full of groceries or packages.
 5) Take your time and don't rush to cross the street before the light changes. Use a handrail while coming down stairs. Also, use caution getting in and out of vehicles.
While it is a good idea to de-ice your steps and sidewalk, the salts and nitrates in conventional salt products may quickly run off the streets and sidewalks into the soil where they can kill grass, trees and other plants. They can also be harmful to pets. Instead of using conventional de-icing salt this winter, consider using “pet-safe” de-icer made from calcium magnesium acetate (CMA), potassium chloride (KCl), or calcium chloride (CaCl2) to melt the ice around your home or business. One final note: the elderly are particularly vulnerable during periods of cold weather. If you have an elderly parent, relative, or neighbor, please help them avoid injury. For example, you could offer to go to the shops for them or clear their driveway.  Your help will be much appreciated!