Slips, trips and falls are more frequent in rainy or icy weather, in darkness, when walking on uneven surfaces, and when we're in a hurry.
Visit the UW Alert Blog and Snow Removal Progress Map (as appropriate) to check conditions before arriving on the Seattle campus.
Prevent slips, trips and falls while walking on UW campuses in wet and icy weather.
- Wear slip-resistant footwear that has good traction. Avoid shoes with smooth soles.
- Take shorter steps at a slower pace on icy pavement.
- Hold onto the handrails when using stairs.
- Keep your hands free to catch yourself if you start to fall.
- Use a cart and take the elevator when carrying large items.
- Avoid walking while distracted; put away your mobile device.
- Use caution when stepping off curbs and walking up or down steep slopes.
- Don’t rush! Give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
- Wipe your feet on a mat when you enter a building to remove excess water.
- Store wet coats and umbrellas away from walkways.
Use caution when walking in parking lots.
- Avoid wearing headphones so you can hear cars approaching.
- Watch for moving cars; a driver may not be able to see you.
- Take special care when getting in and out of vehicles when the pavement is slippery or icy.
Consider your personal safety on dark winter days.
- Use walkways with good lighting (or carry a flashlight).
- Walk with other people as often as possible.
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Stay focused and alert.
- Request a safety escort if you need to walk in a dark or secluded area on the Bothell, Seattle or Tacoma campus.
Report unsafe conditions
Please help us identify areas where accidents are likely to occur so we can take steps to keep our campuses safe.
Unsafe conditions can be reported anonymously; you can upload photos and include a description.
Slips, trips and falls are among the most commonly reported accidents at the UW.
All accidents and injuries should be reported to Environmental Health & Safety. Incidents involving University personnel must be reported within 24 hours; however, some incidents require immediate reporting.
More information
Please read the Winter Season Safety Focus Sheet for more information.