Black ice is a layer of dense ice formed on the ground surface, pavements, road surfaces, and on objects (trees, wires, etc.) by the accretion of supercooled rain and drizzle (fog). Black ice is usually observed at air temperatures between 0°C and minus 3°C. The crust of accreted ice can reach several centimetres. Glaze ice is a thin layer of ice on the ground surface formed after a thaw or rain due to a drop in temperature, as well as the freezing of wet snow and raindrops.
Black ice is a layer of dense ice formed on the ground surface, pavements, road surfaces, and on objects (trees, wires, etc.) by the accretion of supercooled rain and drizzle (fog). Black ice is usually observed at air temperatures between 0°C and minus 3°C. The crust of accreted ice can reach several centimetres. Glaze ice is a thin layer of ice on the ground surface formed after a thaw or rain due to a drop in temperature, as well as the freezing of wet snow and raindrops.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR BLACK ICE (GLAZE ICE)
If the weather forecast includes a warning of black ice or glaze ice, take measures to reduce the likelihood of injury. Prepare non-slip footwear, attach metal studs or foam to the heels, and stick plasters or insulating tape to the soles of dry shoes. You can rub the soles with sand (sandpaper).
HOW TO ACT DURING BLACK ICE (GLAZE ICE)
Walk carefully, without rushing, placing your entire foot on the ground. Keep your legs slightly relaxed and your arms free. Elderly people are advised to use a walking stick with a rubber tip or a special stick with sharp spikes. If you slip, crouch down to reduce the height of the fall. When falling, try to curl up and roll to soften the impact with the ground. Black ice is often accompanied by icing. In this case, pay special attention to power lines and overhead lines of electric transport. If you see broken wires, report the location of the break to the local administration.
HOW TO ACT IF INJURED
Contact a trauma centre or an emergency medical care unit. Obtain a medical certificate or a statement of injury, which you can use when filing a lawsuit in court at your place of residence or at the place where the injury occurred, seeking compensation for damages.