NHS shares 'penguin' walking trick to avoid falling over in snow and ice
Walking in the snow and ice can be really difficult, because if you walk too quickly or like you normally would, you run the risk of falling over and hurting yourself.
With parts of Scotland reaching a freezing -17C, NHS bosses have issued some advice on how to best walk through the dangerous icy streets - but, you may feel a little silly when you do it. Their recommendation is to walk like a penguin, and while it may feel unnatural, if it prevents you from serious injury in these icy conditions, then it's got to be worth a try - right?
With freezing temperatures and icy roads set to continue, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde released some advice about how people can avoid hurting themselves. The group's advice includes bending your knees slightly to keep them loose, pointing your feet slightly outwards, extending your arms and then slowly waddling forwards with flat feet.
Dr Emilia Crighton, director for public health at NHSGGC, said: "At this time of year, and especially in icy spells like this one, slips, trips and falls are the most common accidents that result in injury. While it might seem silly to walk or waddle like a penguin, the alternative may be a nasty injury or even time in hospital.
"Remember, when it comes to getting around on the ice, penguins know best, so when you're out and about in the next few days, adopting the penguin stance is a really effective way to move without falling. During this time we should also make sure we're supporting our elderly family members and neighbours by making journeys on their behalf to avoid them having to go out in icy conditions."
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The health board is advising those who experience falls and trips not to attend A&E for treatment if it is not very urgent or life-threatening. Instead, they recommend that if you need help, to call 111 instead.
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