Accidents
Health & Safety
Accidents are a major cause of injury, disability and death, particularly among young children and older people. In England, accidents are responsible for 10,000 deaths a year. Accidents have a significant impact on society both emotionally and financially. The following factors have been proven to have an affect on accident rates:
Age
- Gender - statistically males have more accidents than females.
- Environmental hazards - such as poorly maintained housing
- Social deprivation - such as homelessness and poor health
- Physical and mental health - depression and stress can increase the risk of accidents
- Alcohol and Drugs - is a factor in 20% - 30% of all accidents
- Seasonal variations
- Human behaviour - an individual's attitude toward risk and safety is a major contributor of accident rates.
Accidents and Older People
- Older people are at particular risk of death and disability from falls on stairs or steps. Over 3,000 people over the age of 65 years are killed annually in falls.
- As a part of their 'Avoiding slips, trips and broken hips' campaign, the Department of Trade and Industry issued the following guidelines to reduce the risks of falls.
- These simple steps can prevent pain and injury caused by falls.
- Keep physically active.
- Weak muscles and poor balance can cause someone to fall. Regular exercise such as brisk walking or light gardening can improve these conditions.
- Take fewer risks in your routine.
- When getting out of bed or up from a chair, take your time. It is a good idea to do it in slow stages, so as not to become light-headed.
- Be aware of changes in your health.
- Have regular eye tests and foot care. If you are taking more than four medications, ask your GP to review them on a regular basis. Let a friend or neighbour know if you are feeling unwell.
- Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
- Ensure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong and reduce the risk of fracture. Choose low-fat versions of calcium rich foods, such as milk, cheese and yoghurt.
- Avoid wearing loose-fitting or open-backed shoes and shoes with heels that may cause you to slip or trip.
- Take precautions in the home.
- Simple modifications in your home can help reduce accidents.
Ten Top Tips for Safety on the Stairs
- Light up your stairs (see Energy Advice page Energy Efficiency And The Environment )
- Take care when carrying things up and down stairs
- Take care when cleaning
- Keep stairs and landings free of clutter
- See your stairs, wear glasses if necessary.
- Consider your carpet
- More haste - less speed
- Stay steady
- Hold the handrail
- Keep using the stairs. Exercise helps to maintain muscle strength, balance and co-ordination.
If you do fall
- Try not to panic!
- If you feel pain, try to attract attention before moving.
- If you can not get help, try getting to a chair and sit on it before standing.
- If you can not get up, try to keep warm by covering yourself with something nearby. Tense your leg regularly to produce heat.
- Try to contact a neighbour or relative by banging on a wall or by phoning if possible.
- Inform your GP after a fall.
Last Updated - Monday, 04 August 2008
