Ice and snow can be difficult to walk on for anyone, but even more dangerous for amputees, people with limb difference and people with other physical disabilities. Have a look at some tips below if you struggle on the ice and snow, and don’t forget to let us know if you have any useful ones of your own.
- Keep up with the weather. Get a good weather app on your phone and plan your trips around that.
- Stay in if you can. This one may seem obvious, but if you don’t have to go out and about, then don’t! If you have somewhere you have to be, it might be an idea to ask a friend or family member to go along with you, or at least let them know where you’ll be.
- Plan ahead. If you use an electric chair, make sure it’s fully charged. Think about anything you might need and if you can take it with you.
- Consider extra support. Even if crutches or walking sticks aren’t part of your everyday life, now may be the time to use them until the weather improves.
- Get a grip. Your normal shoes may not cut it in certain conditions, so it’s a good idea to have a pair with extra grip that you can rely on to reduce the chance of a slip.
- Acessorise. There are plently of additions for crutches, sticks, shoes and chairs out there that are designed to help in dangerous conditions.
- Be wary of all surfaces. Ice and frost can be deceiving, so be wary no matter how safe a surface might seem.
- Don’t shy away from support. Asking for help can be tough and we understand why a lot of people don’t do it, but if it’s the difference between a bad fall or becoming stranded, we really recommend it. It could be as simple as someone waiting around to make sure you don’t struggle with a certain area.
- Expect a fall and know how to deal with it. If you’re a prosthetic user, you need to know how to fall. If you haven’t ever been given this information for your situation, ask your physio or NHS medical professional to teach you. You’ll also be able to practice getting back up, but always ask for help if you need it.
- Don’t discount your wheelchair. If you’re used to walking with prosthetics, going back to your wheelchair can be inconvinient, but it may just offer you the security you need for a few days. Chairs can, however, present their own host of issues in bad weather, so be cautious.
- Be considerate. If you don’t struggle to get about in bad weather, it’s so important to remember that others do. Practice patience and offer a helping hand when appropriate.
Be safe out there!