Berlin's icy sidewalks send dozens to the general hospital daily
Berlin's sidewalks have turned into hazardous ice rinks after days of freezing weather. Pedestrians are struggling to stay upright, with dozens ending up in the general hospital each day. The city's long-standing ban on road salt has left residents scrambling for alternatives to avoid slips and falls.
The icy chaos follows Berlin's 2013 Nature Protection Law, which prohibits road salt and other defrosting agents on pavements and driveways. Officials argue that salt harms trees by building up in the soil and damaging roots. While the ban includes exceptions for extreme slipperiness, these only cover roads and cycle paths—not sidewalks.
On January 30, the city senate briefly allowed salt on pavements as an emergency measure. However, the Berlin Greens party and environmental group Nabu quickly challenged the decision. Violations of the salt ban can still result in fines of up to €10,000.
With traditional solutions off-limits, hospitals are seeing a surge in injuries. Berlin's largest trauma centre now treats 30 to 40 people daily for falls, mostly for broken wrists, hand fractures, and concussions. A hospital spokesperson has urged residents to adopt a 'penguin walk'—taking small, flat-footed steps—to stay safe.
Meanwhile, demand for ice grips has soared. Shops report spikes for walking shoes are sold out, leaving some to improvise with socks pulled over their footwear for extra traction.
The salt ban remains in place, forcing residents to rely on makeshift solutions. Hospitals continue treating high numbers of fall-related injuries, while the city insists on protecting trees from salt damage. For now, Berliners must navigate the ice with caution—or risk a costly fine.
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