Step Carefully
With the exception of my philtrum, (That’s the groove between the nose and lip. I just wanted to use that word because it sounds cool.), every inch of me is bruised and hurting. I fell last night and have more colorful spots on me than the tattooed lady at the circus my husband likes to talk about.
The snowplows pushed snow up to the top of our mailboxes on the street, which we have to step up on to reach the box. A brief thaw and refreeze turned the mound into solid ice. I took one step up and fell right down to the street with a thud.
It will be interesting to see the statistics at the end of the season on weather-related injuries. We’ve had so much cold and snow here in the Midwest; I’d be surprised if the emergency rooms aren’t keeping unusually busy with sprains, strains, lacerations, and breaks due to falls and heart attacks from shoveling.
I’m really good at giving advice that I don’t take but here are a few things we can keep in mind the rest of this winter.
Keep our hands out of our pockets. We can’t brace ourselves, or even balance very well, if our hands aren’t available.
Take small steps. It’s easier to recover from a slip if are feet are closer together.
Dress appropriately. At least my jacket offered some padding, and if I had to remain on the ground for a while, I wouldn’t be chilled.
Hold on to the handrails. When walking up and down stairways, the railings can prevent us from going all the way down should we slip.
Walk cautiously. My fall is a reminder to slow down and step carefully. If you don’t, nature will force you to do so. I’m not moving very quickly today.
And here are a few suggestions when driving:
Drive slowly enough for conditions.
Keep space between vehicles.
Use headlights.
Brake before turning.
©2014, Mary K. Doyle
#health #Nature #Ice #Accidents #Caution #Snow #Weather #Midwest