Danger: Caution, ice

Our readers will probably be surprised: why write and talk about ice in hot and sunny Greece. However, as it turned out, this problem can be very relevant, especially in light of “excessive global warming.”

Well, firstly, in winter it is cold in Greece (in some places even very cold), and accordingly, it snows. This happens more often in the north of the country, where snow lies in places until April, and in the mountains until early June.

Athens January 2022

Secondly, for the last 2 years, snow has been falling even on the warmest island of the country – Crete. And this is not a light drifting snow, but full-fledged snowdrifts. And about snow drifts February 2021 and January 2022 in Athens, legends can already be told.

Well, the main reason: people who have lived in Greece for many decades have completely lost their understanding of the dangers of ice. This post is for them.

How to behave when pedestrians are icy

Pedestrians:

Wear suitable shoes Do not walk in the early morning and at night Do not walk on shaded sections of roads and sidewalks (high probability of ice) It is recommended to bypass the metal covers of sewer manholes, as they are often covered with ice in cold weather. Be careful even on the sidewalk, because in ice the car can be brought from the road and into the pedestrian area. Mostly when ice people get injuries to the forearms and hands. During the fall, it is very important to group up and try to fall gently. Do not fall on straight outstretched arms or on your back (you can damage not only your back, but also your head). Pedestrians are advised to move along the sidewalks with extreme caution, bypass bare ice, look under their feet. You can only cross the road in places designated for this – at special pedestrian crossings of various types (however, this rule applies to any weather). You should be as careful and prudent as possible, look when crossing the road first to the left, then to the right. You should not run fast, because you can slip and fall. When walking, it is better to relax your legs and bend a little at the knees, while you need to step on the entire sole. When crossing the road through a land crossing, you should remove your headphones and hood to see around and hear the sounds of the street, which can warn of danger in time. Pedestrians are advised not to keep their hands in their pockets, as this impairs their ability to maintain balance. As a result, you are more likely to fall, and besides, falling in this position increases the risk of serious injury. At the slightest suspicion of an injury, you should immediately seek medical help!

Driver Tips

Drivers:

Take extra care when driving in icy conditions Drive mostly during the day (after sunrise) Avoid early morning and night travel Drive carefully and avoid sudden changes in course and speed Always fasten your front and rear seat belts properly. Seat children in age-appropriate child seats. Check the correct operation of your car’s electrical and electronics (lighting, purifiers, sublimation and air conditioning system, etc.). Always have anti-skid chains in your car. Drive carefully and calmly to arrive and return safe and sound Before leaving, you should carefully inspect your car for serviceability (brakes and tires on tires – first of all). When approaching pedestrian crossings and child care facilities, be sure to reduce your speed to a minimum. Drivers should keep a safe distance between other vehicles. With extreme caution, you should move on bridges and overpasses. Try to avoid risky maneuvers on the road to avoid accidents on slippery roads, protect yourself and other road users from injury. In bad weather, it is recommended to refrain from traveling and moving long distances.

Motorcyclists:

Leave a feeling of freedom in your home and give preference to the warmth of your car (if you have one). Or, in extreme cases, take public transport. It can save your life and at least your health.

Addition:

Rescue service number 112, ambulance 166.

Remember, in Greece there is no special rescue service, its functions are performed by local firefighters. For the most part, they know how to provide first aid, but don’t count on it too much. For those who are not friendly with Greek, call 112 and try to report in English that you are in trouble. If anything, they will call an ambulance on their own.

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