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German Orthopedists Push 'Penguin' Walk and Fall Training for Icy Streets

The latest safety advice prioritizes head protection through practiced shoulder rolls when slips occur.

Overview

  • The DGOU advises the forward-leaning, small-step “Pinguin‑Gang” to keep the center of gravity over the stance leg and reduce slipping on ice.
  • Prevention expert Christopher Spering urges teaching fall and shoulder‑roll techniques from childhood, including practice on a trampoline, to limit serious injuries.
  • Unfallkasse Berlin and the DGUV recommend profiled soles or add‑on anti‑slip spikes for better traction, with ice picks available for crutches and walking sticks.
  • Health insurers echo behavioral tips: keep hands out of pockets, drop bags if you start to fall, slow your pace, and use walls or railings for support.
  • Reports highlight higher risk during early‑morning black ice and for older adults, pregnant people, and those with balance issues, with an NDR video showing how to use the gait.