Walk on Ice

How to Walk on Ice Without Slipping

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Take inspiration from a penguin. 

LIZ STEELMAN / REALSIMPLE.COM

Don’t let yourself be caught in a dangerous slip!

If you’ve been dealing with the slingshot weather across the United States this winter, you might need a little pick-me-up since spring is still awhile a way. Well, look no further than a Virginia man who got his fifteen minutes of fame this week for an unfortunate walk down his driveway.


After stepping onto his driveway covered with black ice, Tim Besecker lost control and slid down the entire length of his driveway, stopping near the street and falling onto his lawn. The slip was captured by his surveillance camera, and his wife, Kelly, posted it on social media. The video has been viewed 44.5 million times on Facebook, and more than 17,000 times on Twitter. And if you’re wondering if Besecker is fine—don’t worry, he is! His wife replied to a concerned tweet.

Now that you’ve had a good laugh, make sure you don’t fall yourself. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when having to walk on ice, you should take inspiration from a penguin. Bend your back slightly forward and point your feet out (like a turned out ballerina) to increase your center of gravity. To walk, make sure you stay flat-footed, keeping your arms out to your sides for balance. Take small steps, or you can even shuffle for maximum resistance.

Another good way to prevent slips? Investing in a good pair of boots. Thankfully, researchers at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network did a meticulous scientific study of 100 winter boots for their slip resistance. Here, their top picks for both men and women.

This Story Originally Appeared On Real Simple