Approximately 1 million U.S. adults are injured in slips and falls every year. During winter months, ice can be difficult to see and puts older adults at risk. If you cannot avoid going outside when there is snow or ice on the ground, these keys can help you avoid a fall: 1. Keep a cell phone in your pocket to call for help in case of a fall. 2. Wear appropriate shoes with good grips. 3. Walk slowly and deliberately. 4. Take small steps to keep your center of balance beneath you. 5. Keep both hands out of your pockets and free for balance. 6. Avoid carrying heavy loads. 7. Always be aware of potentially icy areas. 8. Use handrails wherever you can. Risk factors for falls include lower body weakness, vitamin D deficiency and impaired balance due to prescription and over-the-counter medications. Most falls result from a combination of risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their fall risk. Wintry conditions are dangerous. Slips or trips on ice or snow are…