I’ve done columns based on empirical observation about the differences between walking during the summer, walking in the winter and walking in the snow. Well, between walking in snow, through slush, and walking when it becomes icy, all require different tactics.

Slush can be very deceptive. There are crusty piles in walkways, so people may have to walk over them. You may be able to step into the slush with relative ease, and then, all of a sudden it has been packed so hard that you have to walk over it, but one more step and you sink.

These piles are often the result of snowplows and are encountered when you have to cross a street or highway. Take extra care, because often, vehicular traffic won ‘t! Yes, what a revoltin’ development this is!

An above freezing day will help the snow melt. This creates slush.

Then, after the sun goes down the melted snow and slush gets cold. If the temperatures drop close to freezing, the slush begins to solidify into a slick pile. The melted snow, well, that may become black ice. The only place I almost slipped was on one of the pieces of metal embedded in the sidewalk street ramp.

During the day you can usually see the ice or other slick areas, but after dark, well, it’s like the difference between day and night. I have several pairs or different types of ice creepers that strap to my shoes, and, at least so far, have allowed me to walk safely over slick surfaces. When I go out, if the weather merits it, I either wear them, or take them with me. You know, better to have them with me and not need them than to need them and not have them with me.

Jerry Riley comments for the News Bulletin. He is a retired telecommunications supervisor. © 2014 All Rights Reserved