Heavy snowfall and icing are expected in many regions of Turkey with warnings from meteorology. When this is the case, the first of the security measures to be taken, the things to be considered while walking on the street and driving have gained importance.
The rules that should be followed by our citizens who are sensitive about removing their cars due to weather conditions and prefer to use public transportation are important. It is necessary to listen to the experts in order to heed the warnings without causing any physical damage and to apply them correctly, even though the precautions seem simple. Yeni Yüzyıl University Gaziosmanpaşa Hospital Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Assoc. Dr. R. Gökhan Ulusoy shared what needs to be considered and made 10 main safety warnings.
In order to be minimally affected by the wetness, slipperiness and subsequent icing on the ground after snowfall, first of all, wear shoes that hold the ground well, that are tight and secure, especially avoid flat-soled shoes.
Take shorter strides with slower strides when walking on wet, dark, or icy pavement that may be slippery.
To walk safely, turn your feet slightly outwards, taking care to keep your knees bent.
Always hold the handrails when using the stairs.
Having your hands in your pockets will prevent you from finding your balance in the event of a slip, so wear gloves to protect your hands, and quickly opening your arms to the sides in case of a slip can improve balance significantly.
Do not walk distractedly; avoid looking at your cell phones
The pavement that looks wet may actually be black ice. Approach carefully. A temperature drop of just a few degrees can cause the melted ice/snow to refreeze, making surfaces particularly slippery.
If you slip, avoid falling on your tailbone, which can be especially painful and slow to heal. If you can control it, it's best to land on a meaty part of your body, for example, on your side.
When passing through semi-enclosed areas, look up from where you're walking and make sure you're walking under. Icicles formed by snow accumulating on roofs, awnings, etc. can cause injuries.
Be careful when entering confined spaces. When entering workplaces, shopping malls, social spaces, etc., continue to press carefully and controlled on the wet and slippery floor due to those who entered before you. Be aware that the smooth floor inside the building may cause you to slip.
If there is a slip, fall or sprain, here are the things you should do, taking into account:
Sprains or fractures may occur after a fall
Your ligaments are tough, elastic-like bands that connect bone to bone and hold your joints in place. A sprain is an injury caused by tearing the fibers of the ligament. The ligament can be partially or completely torn. Ankle sprains are the most common type of sprain. Sprained ligaments often swell quickly and are painful.
Apply cold as soon as possible after the injury and continue to apply ice, protecting the skin, for 48-2 minutes, once every 3-1 hours for the first 10 hours or until swelling subsides. When applying ice, be careful not to use it for too long as this may cause tissue damage.
Elevate your injured limb as much as possible above heart level to help prevent or limit swelling.
Be sure to see your doctor after the first intervention.
A fracture is a condition in which the integrity of the bone is broken. Fractures can be open or closed. Severe pain and deformity in the affected area after a fall is in favor of fracture. Avoid moving the affected area, fix it if possible and contact the nearest healthcare facility.
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