Slippery Spots to Watch Out For
- Crosswalks
- Subway and Underground Mall Entrances / Exits
- Areas Where Vehicles Enter and Exit
- Bus and Taxi Boarding / Alighting Areas
- Edges and Steps of Heated Roads
Crosswalks
Crosswalks may look like they provide good traction at first glance, but this can be deceiving. The surface is often far more slippery than expected, and in areas with black ice, you can lose your footing instantly and suffer a serious fall.
Subway and Underground Mall Entrances / Exits
Entrances and exits of subway stations and underground malls at street level are high-risk areas where it’s difficult to brace yourself if you slip, potentially leading to serious injuries. Be cautious not only of icy surfaces packed down by pedestrian traffic, but also of fresh snow that has built up on stairs.
Areas Where Vehicles Enter and Exit
Places where vehicles enter and exit, such as parking lots, often have compacted and polished snow from tire friction. When the temperature drops, these areas can become extremely slippery.
Bus and Taxi Boarding / Alighting Areas
Bus stops and taxi stands are slippery spots because snow is compacted by vehicle tires. People often lose their balance when stepping down or getting in and out of vehicles, so pay close attention to your footing in these locations.
Edges and Steps of Heated Roads
Some sidewalks in central Sapporo have road-heating systems that prevent snow from accumulating. However, at the edges of heated areas, small steps often form between heated and unheated sections. When these slopes get packed down by pedestrians, they turn into “ice ramps” with almost no grip. Walk carefully and step firmly when crossing these areas.
