HOWLAND TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WKBN) – Snow and icy conditions outside can bring a few dangers.
Doctors say this time of year that there is an uptick in fall-related injuries. This can lead to broken bones, especially in the older population.
Insight Rehabilitation Hospital Hillside Medical Director Dr. Megan Teeples said walking slowly as well as treating walkways can help prevent falls.
“Make sure that you’ve salted any kind of walkway, anything that you may walk on around your house: your driveway, your sidewalk, your ramp. If you use a ramp, make sure that if you use a cane or a walker; make sure you always have it with you even if you’re just going out to take out the trash and come back,” Teeples said.
Dr. Teeples said other preventative tips include wearing proper footwear, including shoes or boots with good soles.
For people who live alone or whose support systems aren’t nearby, she recommends having an alert device or at least a cell phone in case of a fall.
With Thursday’s snowy conditions, some people may also need to clear snow from their driveways and walkways, which could mean shoveling.
Doctors urge people with heart conditions to use caution when shoveling.
Teeples said people with cardiac issues should take a lot of breaks.
“If you’re taking a break, go inside and get warmed up and then go back out because the cold can be stressful onto the heart,” Teeples said.
Research shows shoveling snow can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks or cardiac arrest, according to the American Heart Association.
#Snowy #weather #brings #risks #prevent #accident
Leave a Reply