Slippery sidewalks get more common as the freeze-thaw cycle of early spring sets in. (File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Rob Mahon

Icy Sidewalks

Parkland Ambulance urges caution for pedestrians during meltdown

Mar 31, 2022 | 12:00 PM

After months of snow and ice piling higher and higher on streets and sidewalks, the gradual meltdown as we get into April will be welcomed by many. It does bring with it a few of its own risks, however.

With an ongoing freeze-thaw cycle, sidewalks are going to become far slipperier than they’ve been for much of the winter. Parkland Ambulance is reminding people to take extra caution when they’re out walking.

“We’ve had a busy winter season with lots of ice and snow resulting in lots of slips and falls,” said Lyle Karasiuk, director of public affairs with Parkland Ambulance.

Karasiuk said he doesn’t have to look far from home to find examples of ice, and many people will be in the same situation. For both themselves, and anyone who may come to the door, clearing sidewalks is a good habit for everyone to get into.

“Every time I venture to the garage, it is quite treacherous,” Karasiuk said. “People need to understand that as we get closer to spring, we’re freezing and thawing… be careful, keep your sidewalks, your walkaways, your steps and stairs free of ice and snow.”

Raiders win 5-3

Defensive scoring leads Raiders over Wheat Kings

1h ago

GST Holiday

Federal government's two-month GST holiday begins

17h ago

Imminent need

Council set to discuss possible location for homeless shelter on 15th Street

22h ago

Salt and sand are popular methods of getting rid of ice throughout the winter, but Karasiuk recommended an unconventional one for clearing out ice as well: kitty litter. Breaking up the ice and clearing it away afterward becomes easier once the salt has eaten away at it.

“Take your time,” Karasiuk said. “We often are in a rush to get somewhere because we’re late, one more stop before we go pick up the kids from school… just take your time. Watch surfaces, walk carefully. I often use the example of walking like a penguin.”

Slipping and falling on ice is never fun, but at times, if you fall at an awkward angle or on an especially hard surface it can lead to injury. If a fall happens, Karasiuk has some simple advice to remember in the heat of the moment.

“Stop for just a few seconds and just make sure everything is ok,” Karasiuk said. “By that I mean, the shock of it has worn off after a second, but make sure everything moves. Your knees, your ankles, your elbows.”

Karasiuk added this is to make sure there’s no serious damage as once the shock has worn off you might find you’re standing or putting weight on a limb that needs more medical attention. He also said if you go to help someone who has fallen on ice, you should make sure they take a moment as well.

—

rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP