Avoid smooth leather soles, which can be slippery. Ice cleats can be placed on shoes to increase traction and prevent falls. They may be purchased in sporting goods stores. For people who are visually impaired and use long white canes, constant contact with the ground facilitates safer travel, warning of cracks, holes and other obstacles that often become obscured. For individuals with dogs, either as guides or pets, protective gear for paws is available to enhance travel safety for the animals and their human companions.
Leaves remaining on the ground as well as snow pose another potential safety hazard.
Be careful in approaching leaves or snow banks, since they can hide puddles and distort the depth of the curb. Snow can sometimes help outdoor navigation, since it narrows pathways, making it easier to identify walking space. Before crossing an intersection, wait a few extra seconds to be sure traffic has stopped. Snow, wind and rain muffle many of the sounds that warn of oncoming cars and other environmental changes. Winter weather gear, such as gloves and hats, also affect our senses of touch and hearing.