Home / Disasters and Accidents / Icy Roads Spark ER Surge: Falls, Fractures Plague Area
Icy Roads Spark ER Surge: Falls, Fractures Plague Area
27 Jan
Summary
- Hospitals are seeing a rise in injuries due to icy conditions.
- Common injuries include broken wrists, ankles, and hips from falls.
- Shoveling snow has also led to serious health issues and fatalities.
Hospitals across the Philadelphia region have reported an increase in emergency room visits attributed to the recent icy weather. Many individuals have sustained injuries from falls on frozen surfaces, ranging from bruises to more significant fractures.
Common injuries documented by medical professionals include fractures of the wrists and ankles, often incurred when people instinctively extend their hands to break a fall. Hip injuries also represent a significant concern for healthcare providers during this period.
Beyond falls, the strenuous activity of shoveling snow has proven hazardous. In Lehigh County, three individuals tragically died while clearing snow. Medical staff also see strains and even heart attacks associated with shoveling.
Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid icy patches whenever possible. For those clearing snow, prioritizing safety by not overexerting oneself and being mindful of pre-existing health conditions is crucial to prevent injuries and medical emergencies.
