Walking is good for you – click here to check out the health benefits and it helps you to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Walking outside in the winter months – even in the ice and snow - can be very enjoyable. All you need is the appropriate clothing and to take note of cold-weather safety tips and you will be able to walk more safely.

It is inevitable that you will encounter some slippery surfaces when walking outdoors in the winter – as roads seem to be the major priority everywhere when it comes to clearing ice and snow - so it can be tricky sometimes to avoid ice and slippery sidewalk/pavement situation.

Walking outside in icy conditions calls for thinking ahead, caution, and a little common sense and always allow yourself extra time so that you don’t have to hurry. It is when people are rushing that accidents can happen.

Use these tips to prepare yourself and take care when out walking in icy or snowy conditions.

• Concentrate on your walking and take small steps - walking at a slower pace than normal increases your traction and can greatly reduce your chances of falling.

• Be aware of where you are going - Always watch for hazards and dangers such as ice on steps, pavements, and pathways.

• Don't rush. Move at a speed that feels comfortable and remember to shorten your stride. Give yourself lots of time to get where you are going.

• Keep one hand free for your balance.
  Use handrails when available, for going up or down steps and take care to plant your feet firmly on each step.

• Wear good footwear with treads – these are designed to provide a better grip in wet and slippery conditions or you can try shoe chains or ice grippers –which are designed to provide traction on ice and snow, - however they are not suitable for walking on normal surfaces because the chain links provide unstable footing.

• Stay alert - look out for icicles hanging from house eaves, sheets of ice on sloping roofs that may be melting if the sun is out.

• Don’t carry a heavy backpack or shopping bag as this will make you unstable by altering your balance.

• Brighten up your outer gear by wearing a cheerfully coloured scarf or hat. This makes you more visible to drivers.

• If the sun is bright then, wear sunglasses which will help you see better through any glare and avoid hazards as well as protecting your eyes from harsh sunlight.

• Lastly give yourself the equivalent of four legs by using walking poles which will reduce the chances of you slipping and gives you extra stability and confidence. I find them invaluable. (An added bonus with walking poles is that they give your upper body more of a workout – ideal if you are trying to lose weight and get fit!)

• If you have a cold or not well in any way then don’t walk as many infections can upset your balance – wait until you are better or walk somewhere safer such as a mall.

Take care and enjoy your walking