After receiving several inches of snow with ice last week, a Washington physical therapist gives advice for avoiding slips and falls this winter.

JET Physical Therapy Co-Owner Eric Turner says many injuries related to cold weather happen from falls on ice-covered sidewalks, steps, driveways, or porches. Turner says that before people head outside, they should be prepared for what hazardous conditions may exist and know what physical limitations they have, such as poor balance, “If we do need to be outside there are some slippery surfaces, conditions that we run across, some things that may help to try to avoid a fall in those situations are slowing down, just taking smaller steps, a little bit wider base of support, just keeps our center of gravity under us and can reduce the chance of falling.”

For those with poor balance Turner recommends walking sticks or canes to provide support outside. Even if it’s just a walk to the mailbox, Turner encourages adults to wear warm clothing and gloves, and footwear with treads and good traction, or consider purchasing ice grippers for shoes.