Health Report: Staying safe this winter, tips to prevent falls on ice

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - This winter’s warmer temperatures have led to unpredictable icy conditions across Alaska, raising concerns about slips, trips, and falls. According to the Department of Health, between 2016 and 2020, falls were the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among Alaskans.

Daniel Schramm, Injury Prevention Specialist, emphasized the importance of preparation and awareness to stay safe this season.

“Fall prevention is always an important topic to be able to discuss and keep on the forefront of our minds because essentially the chances of falling really increase as we age,” he said. “Falls can be especially harmful really for older adults. Falls can of course break bones and lead to disabilities and hospital stays, but most falls can actually be prevented.”

Schramm said that wearing ice cleats helps one navigate through the ice, and it is important to pay attention to the types of shoes you purchase and make sure they do well on the ice.

For more resources to help prevent falls, you can visit the Department of Health’s website.

See a spelling or grammar error? Report it to web@ktuu.com

Copyright 2024 KTUU. All rights reserved.