Winter Safety: How to Prevent Slips and Falls

The most dangerous thing during winter is the winter ground. Many have fallen victim to the occasional slip and fall on the slippery winter ground, especially the elderly folk. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent spending the season in and out of the hospital.

First, here are some common injuries that happen during winter.

• Sprains and fractures
• Spinal or back injuries
• Soft tissue injuries

Ending up on your rear is more common than you think during the winter. You can end up flat on your back or land unintentionally on your arm, wrist, and foot, causing a sprain or fracture. This can cause immense pain, and sometimes there is no injury. However, if the pain lasts for more than a day, you should visit a doctor in the nearest private hospital in Adelaide.

A doctor will determine the type of treatment you need and classify the injury as either minor or severe. Severe injuries might require you to stay in a private hospital in Adelaide for a while, but most minor injuries can get better after you treat them with some ice and get some rest.

A common statement you will hear from your doctor, the media, and even other family members during winter is “stay inside.” If you are still working or have some errands to run, this might be a difficult task. To help you stay safe on these streets, here’s what you need to do;

Walk slowly

Roads, pavements, and other surfaces are usually filled with invisible ice making them slippery. As the name suggests, you can’t see the ice on the surface, only a greasy or shiny floor. You can easily slip or fall after getting out of your car. That’s why you should take your time. Take shorter strides and lean forward when walking. Use the car door as support when exiting your vehicle to help keep you balanced. 

Invest in some quality footwear

Winter boots are designed to be resistant to slippery floors. They have more grip keeping you balanced as you walk around during the cold winter. Slip-resistant footwear is a worthy investment if you want to avoid injuries during this time. 

Avoid keeping your hands full while walking 

While making several trips from the car to the house carrying groceries is tiring, but carrying all those grocery bags at once during winter can be extremely dangerous. You need your hands free while walking on ice just in case you need to hold on to something when you lose balance. If there's no one to help you carry the luggage inside, stuff it in a backpack, and move slowly towards your destination. 

Always choose the best route

The route you use every day might not be the safest during winter. The shortcut you use might get you there faster, but it might have the most snow compared to other paths. Avoid walking or driving on roads where ice removal is incomplete.

Here’s a final tip for you, make good use of doormats whether they are at your doorstep or the entrance of your office building. It helps reduce the moisture on your shoes, preventing any slips and falls.