Hazards, slips and trips
With the dark, cold and wet mornings and evenings closing in, we are seeing an increase in the number of reported accidents from slips and trips. Please be careful out there, especially when going up and down stairs, using your mobile phone, or walking in unfamiliar surroundings.
When out in the community, please look out for these possible hazards:
Snow and ice
- If you’re moving around outside in sub-zero conditions, take care to avoid icy patches, especially in the dark. Wear appropriate footwear and make sure to wrap up warm. Check the weather forecast before you leave the house, so you don’t get caught out.
- If you drive, make sure your car is topped up with de-icer. Check that all your lights work before you start your journey. Take a ‘grab bag’ with you – containing a warm jumper, woolly hat, gloves, socks, boots, torch and high-viz jacket if you have one.
Foggy conditions
- Fog is a hazard and a challenge to your driving ability. Don’t drive too close to the car in front and be aware of what’s behind you. Fog lights are great but don’t use them all of the time. If you can clearly see the car in front from a quarter of a mile away, they’re probably not needed. It should be used a challenge to your driving ability not to how fast you can go.
Rain and leaves
- Leaves can hide kerbs, frozen puddles and drain covers. They are also very slippery when stood on – don’t try it! Take care to avoid stepping on leaves, especially when going up or down stairs or slopes.
- Rain destroys any warmth your coat provides if it isn’t waterproof.
- Puddles can hide holes, cracks and potholes in the road. Never trust a puddle.
Mobile phones
- Mobile phones are a huge distraction. Avoid using your phone whilst walking, especially when you’re going up or down stairs. They can be replaced, you probably can’t.
There’s no substitute for “look where you’re going” – a saying that was used by great-great-grandparents, and for a good reason!
- Keep your phone fully charged – but (as recommended by the Fire Service) do not charge it overnight while you’re asleep.
Accidents aren’t fun, and they hurt. So It’s far better to prevent accidents from happening in the first place.