Slip and Fall Injury Prevention

· Broken bones
· Head injuries
· Fractures
· Bruises
· Death

According to the CDC, falls can be divided into two different types: same-level and elevated. The differences between these two types of accidents are numerous, and the results can be devastating.

Same-Level Accidents

This is the most common form of fall, and occurs when you slip on a surface you're walking on, with no change in elevation following your accident. Normally, you  trip and hit either the surface you are walking on or another object on the ground. Some of the most common examples of this type of accident include:

· Tripping over electrical cords or power lines
· Tripping on door jams and lips
· Falling over objects left on the sidewalk or in a walking area
· Slipping on wet floors in or around businesses
· Slipping on ice on pavement, such as roads, driveways, or sidewalks

The majority of unintentional falls fall into this category.

Elevated Accidents

While these are less common, they are far more likely to result in serious injury. Elevated falls occur when the victim falls from one level of surface to another, causing a net loss in elevation. While about 60% of these accidents occur from a height of less than 10 feet, they are still much likelier to end in serious injury.

Follow the strategies to avoid slip and fall dangers:

• Although your hands might be cold, don't put them in your pockets when you are navigating wintry stretches. If you slip, you will need your arms to restore balance. If you fall, your arms will help you to break your fall and land safely.

• Wear the proper footwear. Although it may not be glamorous to wear a pair of boots, it will give you traction, not to mention keep your feet warm. If you want to wear heels or other kinds of shoes, simply carry an extra pair with you to change in to.

• If you think you are approaching a particularly slick area of snow or ice, don't be afraid to explore the area with your toe to see how slippery it is before you put your full weight on the area. Better safe than sorry.

• Don't carry large loads while walking on snow or ice - you are asking for trouble! If you do carrying a load on an icy walk and feel yourself falling, toss your load so that you can break your fall with your arms.

• Take small careful steps instead of large ones. When getting out of a vehicle, step, don't jump. When possible, use handrails, handles - anything that will help you keep your balance.

• Help your elderly friends and relatives on snow and ice. Slips and falls can be extremely dangerous for seniors. If you are older, don't shy away from asking others for a helping hand.