Falls

Indoors

• Trip-proof your floors
  • Secure loose carpet edges with tape.
  • Remove small throw rugs, or keep them from slipping with rubber mats underneath.
  • Use rubber or other non-skid mat in and next to bathtubs and showers.
  • Keep clutter off the floor.
  • Clean up spills quickly.
  • Arrange furniture so that every room has a clear pathway.
  • Run cords and wires along baseboards, not across open spaces.
  • Check doorways inside and out for uneven transitions from one floor surface to another.
  • Replace thresholds to create level floor or use tape or paint to highlight uneven levels.
  • Always look out for lively pets and small children.

• Avoid walking in an unlighted room
  • Use nightlights in hallways, bedrooms and bathrooms.
  • Keep a flashlight near every bed in case of a power outage.
  • In all rooms have a lamp or light switch near entrances.

• For older folks
  • Get your vision checked regularly.
  • Get regular exercise to keep muscles strong.
  • Ask if prescription medications can affect your balance.
  • Wear non-skid shoes.
  • Install grab bars in showers and tubs.
  • Have handrails on both sides of staircases.
  • If you feel unsteady, use a cane or walker.

• For youngsters
  • Keep shoelaces tied. Better yet, use slip-on or Velcro™-closures for shoes.
  • Avoid wearing just socks, which can be slippery.
  • Keep stepladders folded, and eliminate other furniture climbing opportunities.
  • Put stop locks on all windows so they cannot be opened wide from the bottom.

Outdoors

• Keep walkways clear of leaves, branches, snow or other debris.
• Walk on the grass instead of wet or icy sidewalk.
• Put salt, sand or kitty litter on snowy walkways.
• Add handrails to even short stairways.
• Use a non-skid strip or non-skid paint on every step.
• At night and in dim light, use a flashlight.
• Watch for cracks and bulges in sidewalks.
• Wear your glasses - sun and/or prescription, so you can clearly see the path ahead.
• On unpaved ground, watch for animal holes or other soil depressions.

For more trauma tips, click here.

For more information about Rideout's Trauma services, click here.

Remember, if you or another has been injured, dial 911 immediately!