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Wintertime can be a busy time for the Emergency Trauma Center at Trinity Hospital, mainly because wintry conditions can be factors for injuries from falls.

Falls make up the most common injury seen at Trinity Health, not only during the winter, but year-round, said Amber Emerson, RN, Injury Prevention Specialist with Trinity Health’s Trauma Services. “People are in a hurry. Slips and trips are most common and even more so in the winter time, with ice and snow on the ground.”

While some injuries may only result in a simple bump or bruise, they could lead to more severe injuries, Amber says. Between October 2019 and March 2020, 74 percent of patients with ice- or snow-related falls seen at Trinity Health’s Emergency Room resulted in a fracture.

Amber stresses that it is important to “slow down and pay attention to the task at hand,” and not have any distractions when it comes to performing tasks, such as walking or driving, in wintry conditions.

Driving.

“There are more ‘fender bender’ type collisions related to snowy and icy conditions, simply from not being able to stop in time,” Amber said, adding that while many injuries from these accidents are less severe in nature, many do require medical attention.

The National Safety Council suggests preparing your vehicle for the upcoming winter season. This could include a flashlight, batteries, blanket, snacks, water, gloves, boots, and a first-aid kid. “Load your car with winter travel gear including tire chains, ice scraper/snowbrush, jumper cables, and road flares,” Amber added. (Kits with these items can be purchased as a bundle, or individually.)

Carbon Monoxide.

Described as “the invisible killer” due to its odorless and colorless presence, carbon monoxide can be a danger. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 430 people die from and approximately 50,000 people are hospitalized in the United States, due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Proper maintenance is necessary for any appliance requiring fuel – gasoline, propane, wood, natural gas, etc. – to function,” Amber said. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating and cooking equipment in the home that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide, as are vehicles or generators running in an attached garage.

Carbon monoxide detectors save lives. The National Fire Protection Association advises homeowners to install carbon monoxide detectors in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Emerson adds that batteries in carbon monoxide detectors, as well as smoke detectors, should be changed every six months.

Frostbite.

The wind chill plays a large role.

“The colder the ‘real feel’ temperature, the faster frostbite can occur,” Amber said. “When temperatures drop below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it is possible for frostbite to occur within five minutes to exposed skin.”

It is best to be prepared, including covering exposed skin, “even when you’re not expecting to be outside long, such as when walking to the mailbox or across a parking lot,” she said.

Shoveling and Snowblowing Injuries.

Shoveling snow and using a snowblower are among winter’s most grueling activities. High levels of activity in cold temperatures put many people at risk of heart attack, especially those with inactive lifestyles.

And, as mentioned, there is the threat of frostbite if you are doing this without wearing proper clothing. Kevin Franks, DO, an emergency medicine physician with Trinity Health’s Emergency Trauma Center, advised wearing layers of clothes, including warm, insulated, waterproof gloves, and two pairs of socks.

“If you start noticing symptoms, get inside quickly to warm up,” he said.

Avoid Injuries While Enjoying the Winter Weather.

Whether you are skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or skating, take safety precautions like learning basic skills or using the appropriate gear for the sport.