Reduce winter fall risk

Reduce your Winter Fall Risk

‘Tis the season for family, food, shopping, and inclement weather.  So far, the winter here in Nebraska has been mild at best, but icy conditions are sure to come soon as they always do.   It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it also can be the most dangerous.  Here are a few tips to reduce your risk of falling this winter:

Don’t be in a hurry.  There’s lots of holiday gatherings to attend and places to be this month, but give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to be!  A number of falls happen because people are rushing to their car.  Slow down, focus on walking, and get where you need to be.

Use sand, salt, or other ice melting materials.  Salt your front walk way, parts of your drive way, and your side walk.  These materials help melt the ice, making it safer for you to walk.

Work on your walk.  Take smaller strides, shorter steps when you’re walking on an icy surface.  Try to not carry too much when walking on icy surfaces, having both hands free can help with your balance.  And finally, wear proper footwear.  Ladies, heels might not be the best choice in certain conditions.

Sometimes gravity gets the best of us, and you do fall.  Keep a cell phone nearby for a situation such as this.  If you are seriously hurt and by yourself, you can call someone to help you.  If you do fall, and your hands are free, use them to protect your head.  Wrist and hand injuries are painful, but their nothing compared to a head injury!

Using these tips can help reduce your risk of falling this winter.  Remember, enjoy the holidays but stay safe and protect yourself!

Sources:

https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/winter-walking-tips.aspx

http://lowenthalabrams.com/2013/11/27/15-ways-reduce-risk-winter-slip-fall/

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