Preventing Seven Common Winter Injuries, from Intermountain Health Trauma Experts

As temperatures continue to drop, providers like Intermountain Health start to see an increase in visits to the emergency department with a variety of preventable winter injuries.

According to the latest Consumer Product Safety Commission report on winter safety, 124,700 people were treated in emergency departments nationwide in 2022 for winter activity related injuries.

As the temperatures drop Intermountain Health’s emergency departments and trauma teams typically see a surge in winter-related injuries from car accidents, people slipping on the ice, skiing and sledding related accidents, and injuries from snow shoveling.

“One of the most frequently seen causes for visits to the emergency room this time of year is from slipping on icy sidewalks,” said Adam Balls, MD, Intermountain Health’s senior medical director of emergency medicine and trauma. “These slip-and-fall injuries can range from a small abrasion or cut to a traumatic brain injury, so it is important that people take steps to reduce their danger.”

The Intermountain Health emergency and trauma teams have put together a list of seven safety reminders people can take to help avoid an unnecessary trip to the emergency room.

1. Shovel Walkways: Keep sidewalks, driveways and walkways free from snow and ice, and be sure to use sand or ice melt as well. Anyone and everyone is at risk of falling or slipping on icy and snowy walkways, but seniors are especially vulnerable. Injuries can include concussions, severe bruising, muscle sprains, broken bones and back injuries.

2. Safely Shovel: Every year in the United States, an average of 11,500 people are treated in the emergency department for snow shoveling-related injuries. The lifting, digging, and repetitive motions put extra strain and stress on the body. Before shoveling, make sure to stretch and if it’s too strenuous, consider hiring someone else to remove your snow or ask a neighbor for help.
If you’re using a snow blower, do not try to clear snow from the discharge chute with your hands – this is when most snow blower injuries happen. In 2022 there were 4,700 snow blower related injuries.

Do not leave a gas-powered snow blower running in an enclosed area. The exhaust contains the poisonous gas, carbon monoxide, which can kill in minutes.

3. Check Footwear: Wear shoes or boots that have good traction – proper footwear is the key to safety when outside shoveling snow or walking.

4. Pay Attention: Slow down. Take your time and make shorter strides. And don’t rummage through a purse, text, or keep your hands in your pockets while walking – icy patches can be everywhere.

5. Winter-Proof Your Vehicle
Winter roads pose unique challenges, but with some preparation, drivers can navigate them safely. Ensure all vehicles are winter-ready with these steps:
• Check your tires for proper inflation and good tread.
• Ensure your brakes are in good working condition.
• Keep the windshield washer fluid topped up for clear visibility.
• Keep your gas tank full.
• Carry a basic first aid kit, water, and snacks.

6. Drive Safely: Every year in the US, an average of 116,800 people are injured, and 1,300 people are killed from motor vehicle accidents due to winter weather conditions. Allow extra time for bad weather and/or traffic delays – rushing to your destination can place you in a dangerous and slippery situation.

Leave ample distance between you and the driver in front of you, as braking distances can be up to nine times greater on snowy and icy surfaces. If your car has four-wheel drive, use it and have your vehicle inspected to make sure the brakes are working properly. And always wear your seatbelt.

“Some of the worst injuries we see are related to auto accidents, especially with inclement weather,” said Dr. Balls. “The solution for this is really quite simple, which is just slowing down, don’t be in a rush while driving, practice more safety behind the wheel, and buckle up!”

7. Wear safety equipment: Before reaching for the skis, snowboard, or sled, grab the proper protective equipment as well- helmet, goggles, gloves, snow pants, etc.

Of all the winter activity injuries in 2022 in the U.S., 53% occurred while skiing and snowboarding.

“Wearing a properly fitted helmet could prevent head injuries,” said Dr. Balls. “If it’s sledding, skiing, or snowboarding, wearing a helmet makes a difference and is a vital part of protection to avoid serious injuries.”

Following these simple tips can help reduce the number of injuries during the winter months and save families a trip to the hospital.

However, if you are injured do not delay care. If you have a medical emergency, call 911, or go to the emergency department.

About Intermountain Health

Headquartered in Utah with locations in six states and additional operations across the western U.S., Intermountain Health is a not-for-profit system of 34 hospitals, approximately 400 clinics, medical groups with some 4,600 employed physicians and advanced care providers, a health plans division called Select Health with more than one million members, and other health services. Helping people live the healthiest lives possible, Intermountain is committed to improving community health and is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare by using evidence-based best practices to consistently deliver high-quality outcomes at sustainable costs. For up-to-date information and announcements, please see the Intermountain Health newsroom at https://intermountainhealthcare.org/news.