Avoiding falling over in winter
In just the Staffordshire Moorlands alone, there were over 6,000 incidents 
of people falling over and receiving some sort of injury. Older and more vulnerable people are more at risk of this being a real problem, and can lead to a loss of independence, inability to look after themselves and becoming isolated. Sometimes it can also lead to being hospitalised, with many people suffering hip injuries.
But there are things that you can do to help stay on your feet this winter. Have a look at the hints and tips below or ring the Staffordshire Cares advisors to have a chat about what you can do to avoid falling over.
Take care of yourself:
Ask someone to shovel your path and drive - can a neighbour or a member of the Snow Patrol| help?
Stock up on drinking water, just in case the pipes freeze, and get in some dry and tinned food. Pop some ready meals in your freezer, and stock up on first aid materials. Buying one extra item a week soon mounts up and won’t go off.
Stock up on prescribed medications
Make sure you dress for winter - get those hats, gloves and warm, waterproof footwear. All are necessary for all outdoor activity.
Think about where your bin is and the best place for it in icy weather, table salt could clear your route.
At home:
Make sure your slippers fit snugly – loose fitting slippers cause so many falls. Change them if they're too loose.
Make sure your drains are clear - so that they don't flood and freeze.
Put a shovel by your door
Store a de-icer product, table salt, rock salt all will work and spread it on your path, or get someone to do it for you, to give you traction on ice.
During snow:
Shovel snow away often - new snow is lighter. If you can't manage find a member of the Snow Patrol to help you.
If you have to travel, use buses - many bus routes are the first
priority for snow clearing
Before you start driving, remove all the snow from the roof, windows and hood of your car so that it doesn't blow onto your window.
Keep a windsheild scraper and brush in your car, as well as a bag of sand, emergency blanket and waterproof boots.
Download a leaflet| for more information and advice (PDF 812kb)
Do you need help? Hire someone.|