Winter slips, trips, and falls

Christopher Cook
Dec 5, 2025
4 min read

Winter brings plenty of seasonal challenges, and one of the biggest issues for workplaces, community venues, families, and even visitors to your home is the rise in slips, trips, and falls. These incidents can happen in seconds and often lead to injuries that range from mild sprains to broken bones. In some cases people may experience head injuries or unconsciousness which require an immediate first aid response. As a first aid training provider based in Bletchley and Milton Keynes we see the same patterns every winter, so it is helpful to understand why these accidents occur and what you can do about them.

Why slips, trips, and falls increase during winter

Several factors combine to make winter a higher risk season.

Cold weather and ice

Ice is an obvious hazard. Even a thin layer can turn pavements, steps, patios, and car parks into dangerous surfaces. Black ice is especially risky because it is hard to see and people only realise it is there once they have fallen.

Reduced daylight

Short days mean more people walk in poor light. Hazards that would normally be obvious can be missed simply because the path ahead is not clearly seen.

Wet floors from rain and snow

People walking inside with soaked footwear bring moisture onto floors. Tiles and vinyl become very slippery when wet, especially in entrances, reception areas, changing rooms, and classrooms.

Bulky winter clothing

Coats, scarves, hats, and gloves reduce mobility and restrict vision. People may move awkwardly or fail to spot hazards at their feet.

Common injuries from winter falls

Slips and trips in winter can cause:

Sprains and strains
Broken wrists, elbows, and ankles from instinctively trying to break a fall
Hip and pelvic injuries, particularly in older adults
Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue damage
Head injuries that may require urgent care

These injuries are often more severe in colder weather because muscles are tighter and people move more rigidly. This is one of the reasons workplaces should consider regular first aid training and refreshers. A confident first aider will know exactly what to do when someone is hurt.

Preventing slips, trips, and falls

Prevention is always better than cure. A few simple steps can significantly reduce the winter risk.

Clear ice and snow

Grit pathways early in the morning and check them throughout the day. Grit does not stop ice from forming but it improves traction and makes surfaces safer.

Improve lighting where possible

Replace dim bulbs near entrances, car parks, fire exits, and external walkways. Good visibility removes a large part of the risk.

Manage indoor floor conditions

Use absorbent mats at all entrances and replace them when they become saturated. Dry floors quickly and use clear signage while floors are wet.

Keep walkways clear

Remove clutter such as bags, boxes, cables, folded furniture, and anything else that could cause a trip. In busy workplaces this one step prevents countless accidents.

Encourage appropriate footwear

Footwear with good grip makes a huge difference. This is especially important for employees who regularly work outdoors or walk between buildings.

What to do if someone falls

If you witness a fall, stay calm and follow basic first aid guidance.

Check for danger

Look around to make sure it is safe for you to help. Ice and moving vehicles are common risks in winter.

Speak to the casualty

If they are responsive encourage them to stay still until you can check for injuries. Sudden movement can make things worse.

Look for pain, bleeding, or deformity

If the person cannot move a limb, or if you see swelling or an unusual angle, this may indicate a broken bone. Support the injured area and keep them warm while waiting for medical help.

Head injuries

If someone becomes drowsy, confused, sick, or loses consciousness at any point you need urgent medical assistance. These symptoms may suggest a serious injury.

Keep them warm

Cold conditions can make shock worse. Use coats, blankets, or anything available to keep the person warm until help arrives.

These skills are taught in our first aid training courses in Milton Keynes, and they are essential for keeping people safe during winter.

Why first aid training matters more in winter

Winter is a busy season for emergency services and response times may be longer than usual. This makes trained first aiders even more valuable. A confident and well trained first aider can recognise serious injuries, provide early support, and reduce the impact of an accident while waiting for professional care. Many organisations choose to renew their first aid qualifications in the colder months for this exact reason.

At DTMK Training Services we deliver first aid courses in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, and Oxfordshire. We provide workplace first aid courses, first aid classes for schools and nurseries, basic life support and defibrillator training, and a range of other regulated qualifications. If your team needs training before winter sets in, we can help you choose the right option.