Winter Safety Tip

Winter weather brings icy sidewalks, snowy parking lots, and one of the most common — and preventable — workplace injuries: slips and falls. One of the riskiest moments? Getting in and out of your vehicle.

To reduce your risk this winter, remember one simple technique: Step Down, Not Out.

Why “Step Down, Not Out” Matters

When surfaces are slick, stepping sideways out of a vehicle can easily throw off your balance and cause your feet to slide. Instead, using a controlled, forward-facing approach helps you maintain stability and stay upright.

Follow These Winter-Smart Steps

✔ Step down onto the ground with both feet before moving forward.
✔ Avoid stepping out sideways, which increases the chance of slipping.
✔ Move slowly and deliberately — rushing increases risk.
✔ Use handholds on your vehicle whenever possible for added support.
✔ Wear traction footwear to improve grip on icy or snowy surfaces.

Traction footwear is one of the most effective defenses against winter slips and falls. The added grip can make a significant difference on icy parking lots, sidewalks, and job sites.

A Small Habit That Makes a Big Difference

Slips and falls can happen in seconds, but simple habits like stepping down carefully and wearing the right footwear can help keep you safe all winter long.

Stay safe, stay steady, and step confidently this season.

This example shows an unsafe step out, increasing the risk of slipping and losing balance on icy surfaces:

This example shows a safe step out, stepping down to minimize poor footing and sliding on the ice: