As a severe cold snap grips parts of the UK, the National Health Service has issued vital guidance to the public on how to handle dangerous slips and falls on icy surfaces. With thousands injured annually, knowing the correct response can prevent serious harm.
Immediate Steps After a Fall on Ice
The first and most critical instruction from health officials is to remain calm. If you or someone nearby takes a tumble, avoid the instinct to jump up or move the person immediately. Instead, take a moment to carefully assess the situation.
Check for any pain, obvious injuries, and determine if the person can move their limbs comfortably. Only once this initial check is complete should you consider helping them up or calling for assistance.
When to Call 111 or 999
Understanding which service to contact is essential for getting the right help swiftly. For minor injuries or general pain following a fall, the NHS advises calling 111 or using the 111 online service. Advisors can assess the situation and direct you to the most appropriate care.
However, dial 999 immediately for an ambulance if the fall has resulted in a head, neck, back, or hip injury, or if the person is unable to get up at all. These are classified as serious injuries requiring urgent emergency intervention.
The Stark Statistics and a Waddling Solution
The advice comes against a backdrop of significant risk. According to the NHS Information Centre, more than 7,000 people are admitted to hospitals across the UK each year due to accidents on snow or ice.
To combat this, health experts are championing a simple but effective preventative method: walking like a penguin. The technique involves:
- Bending your knees slightly to keep them loose.
- Pointing your feet outwards to improve balance.
- Extending your arms by your sides.
- Shuffling forward slowly with your feet as flat as possible.
This 'penguin waddle' lowers your centre of gravity and maximises contact with the ground, drastically reducing the chance of a slip.
A Crucial Message for Older Adults
Falls prevention leads stress that this advice is particularly important for older individuals, who may be less steady on their feet. A simple slip on ice can lead to prolonged hospital stays and life-changing injuries for this demographic. Practising the waddling technique can be a key protective measure.
The NHS is encouraging communities to share these tips widely. Finding a 'waddle buddy' to practise with and looking out for vulnerable neighbours can make a substantial difference in preventing winter accidents as the cold weather persists.
