Guardian Life & Style (US) • Jan. 16, 2026, 6:08 a.m.

Changing the way you get about offers some protection from the hazards of ice, snow and compacted leaves Winter is peak season for slipping and falling outdoors, which is ironic given that we are advised to go outside for our mental and physical wellbeing. Ice is the most obvious danger but snow, which looks so cheering, becomes a slip hazard when compacted or melted and refrozen.

The most common risk, though, is from fallen leaves. Safe when dry, leaves crushed underfoot exude a mix of waxes, lignin, cellulose and plant oils.

This mixes with rainwater to form a slimy, low-friction gel every bit as slippery as black ice. Continue reading...

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