Waddle to school: Top tips for staying safe in icy weather

Might these penguins have the secret to staying safe on the ice?

How do you normally get to school in the morning? Do you normally get the bus, travel by car, or walk?

But have you ever thought about walking to school like a penguin instead?

With a spell of cold weather currently in the UK and Storm Bert set to reach lots of areas this weekend, there could be some icy conditions on pavements, in parks and playgrounds.

And waddling - rather than walking - is just one way of staying safe and avoiding any accidents.

Find out more top tips to stop slips below!

Newsround spoke to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (Rospa) to get some advice.

Even though it might look silly, Policy Director Steve Cole said that walking like a penguin can help to steady yourself.

"Take small, careful steps and keep your knees slightly bent to stay balanced."

More importantly, see if you can look out for ice and avoid it, which looks like dark or shiny patches on the pavement.

When you think about winter, you might think about making a snowman in your wellies - but wellies aren't actually the best choice for going out in icy weather.

The British Chiropractic Association - a group who represent healthcare professionals who look after bones, joints and muscles - say that they often don’t give enough support.

Instead, Steve from Rospa says to "choose shoes with good grip, like boots with rubber soles" if you can.

Rospa's advice for staying safe on icy paths

1. Walk like a penguin! Take small, careful steps and keep your knees slightly bent to stay balanced.

2. Wear sturdy shoes. Choose shoes with good grip, like boots with rubber soles.

3. Hold onto something. Use handrails or walk close to walls to steady yourself.

4. Avoid icy patches. Watch where you step, and stay on treated paths when possible.

5. Take your time. Don’t rush, walking slowly helps you stay steady and avoid slipping.