As you peak out your window, you will probably see patches of grass under the melting snow. It may not stay that way for long, but Emergency Medical Services personnel are urging you to use caution and good judgment when walking, working or playing with ice. They are concerned about you falling on ice, falling through ice or being hit by falling ice.
Falls can lead to head injuries, broken bones, bruises and even death. In fact, an average of 17,000 Americans die each year from slip-and-fall accidents.
They have issued the following safety suggestions:
· Be extra careful around entrances and exits of stores which become slick with melted snow and ice.
· Change into low-heeled boots that have good traction soles when going outdoors.
· Take short, flat steps to keep the soles of your shoes/boots in maximum contact with the ground.
· If carrying something, hold the item in the hand of your dominant arm.
· Don't rush. Pay attention to where you step. Keep clothing from blocking your peripheral vision.
· Alert property owners to dangerous conditions on sidewalks and parking lots.
This is also the time of year that EMS sees more involving ice-covered water. Ice fishers and snowmobilers need to be extra careful.
If you do fall through ice, keep these tips in mind:
· Remain calm and concentrate on breathing steadily.
· Try to return to the direction from which you fell in because that ice was originally strong enough to hold you.
· Use your elbows to lift yourself onto the edge of the ice and let your clothes drain as much water as possible.
· Then reach out as far as possible and dig into the ice with your hands or a knife or keys, if you have them.
· Start kicking your feet as if you were swimming and simultaneously lift yourself onto the ice.
· Do not stand, but rather keep your body spread out on the ice. Roll away from the opening.
· Get to shelter as quickly as possible and remove wet clothing so as not to develop hypothermia. Rewarm your body by doing an exercise or drinking warm drinks.
Another concern is ice falling from roofs. Make sure you are careful when you see icicles hanging from a house or business. Falling ice can cause serious injury and even death.
