Caution Urged Amid Icy Conditions

A WARNING has been issued to prevent slips and falls in icy conditions across Dumfries and Galloway.

It has been confirmed that over 30 fractures were yesterday treated at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary’s Emergency Department.

Dr David Pedley, a consultant in the emergency department team, said: “I am urging everyone to please take care and to use common sense when they are leaving the house for essential reasons.

“Each winter, we see lots of people in our department who have slipped on ice and hurt themselves and on many occasions this can lead to fractures and other complications.

“At a time when our NHS is already operating at capacity under current lockdown measures, it is extremely important that we all take preventative measures to avoid slips and falls.”

If you have to go out in icy conditions, you should:

Think about the best route to your destination and plan on taking a little extra time to get there

Avoid rushing or taking shortcuts over areas where snow or ice removal is incomplete

Select suitable footwear – flat footwear with rubber soles provides better traction on ice and snow than leather-soled or high-heeled shoes

Use handrails where you can

Take small steps to keep your centre of balance under you

Walk slowly and never run on icy ground