Avoid Slips, Trips, and Falls this Winter
Shanda McNew - PRO PT
Simple, everyday tasks such as
getting the mail, stepping out of the car, or running errands can become
treacherous during Preston County winters. The most common accidents causing
injury in cold months—slips and falls—happen more frequently with dangerous
conditions created by wind, snow and ice. While most
falls result in only minor bumps and bruises, thousands of people are
admitted to hospitals each year with more serious injuries. The good news is
most falls can be prevented by taking extra precautions to help maintain your
balance and move confidently across snowy, icy, or wet surfaces.
- Keep
your driveway and walkways clear. Even if this requires asking for help
from others, it's worth the trouble to prevent a fall. Stay on cleared
paths - grassy slopes can be as slippery as snowy steps.
- Plan
your trips around the weather. If conditions are bad and you can avoid
going out, wait for the weather and sidewalks to clear.
- Take
your time and be careful. Bring a cellphone. Allow yourself plenty of
time as your chances of falling increase when you are running late or
rushing.
- Wear shoes with good traction.
Properly fitting, easy to put on boots or shoes with wide, low heels or
snow and ice cleats that fit over shoes get the greatest traction.
- Dress
warm. If you’re warm, your muscles will stay relaxed. Tense muscles can
adversely affect your balance.
- Be careful getting out of your car.
Plant both feet firmly on the ground before moving. Steady yourself on
the door frame until you have your balance.
- Avoid
carrying heavy loads that may cause you to lose balance. Gloves keep
your hands warm and out of your pockets so you can better balance or
brace yourself if you fall.
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