Hospitals around Illinois are reporting an uptick in visits to their respective emergency departments on Monday, most of it due to slip-and-fall accidents on the ice. 

When ice makes getting around a challenge, you are advised to stay in if possible. If not, learn to walk like a penguin. That means you should take it slow; keep your arms at your sides and hands out of your pockets; shuffle your feet and take short steps; bend slightly and walk flat footed; and keep your center of gravity over your feet as much as possible. OSF HealthCare family practice physician assistant Amy Henderson says fall prevention is key.

Be sure to be careful and use salt on stairs and slick walkways and ask for help from a family member or friend if you need help getting around. If you experience pain from a fall that lasts more than 48 hours, it’s recommended you visit your nearest emergency room.