Can you guess the number one reason patients visit our Emergency Departments during significant winter storms? If you guessed, injury from falls, you are correct!
Injuries from falls are a major hazard during winter weather events. In fact, injury from a fall is the number one reason for seeking treatment in our Emergency Departments during and immediately following significant winter storms.
5 Tips to Prevent Yourself from Falling
Everybody young or old is at equal risk of a fall. Here are five tips to prevent a fall.
- Wear proper footwear with good traction.
- Take slow, small steps.
- Use your feet as probes to detect possible slip, trip and fall hazards.
- Hold on to railings and other stable objects when possible.
- Protect the more vulnerable parts of your body like your head, neck and spine if you do fall.
Always Use Caution
The falls risk does not end when you come inside. Make sure to use caution when you come inside with wet icy shoes. Be sure to remove or dry your shoes and be aware of the falls risk.
An ounce of caution can prevent a nasty spill, a broken bone and a trip to the emergency department.
View other useful information and helpful tips on when to visit the emergency department.
