The Vancouver Island Health Authority is urging caution as we deal with icey roads and sidewalks. Officials say cold snaps create dangerous, icy conditions on our sidewalks and roads which can send people to Island hospitals with fractured bones due to falls.
Island Health says with dangerous slippery conditions everyone -- especially seniors - are especially vulnerable to falls resulting in serious injury.
Dr. Murray Fyfe is Medical Health Officer for the capital region. He advises not going out if you don't have to, and wearing proper footwear if you do:
"And that should be lighter footwear with really good non-slip treads on it, and lower, wider heels to give you good support. If you tend to need to use a mobility device, like a cane, then you should bring that along. And try to avoid carrying objects like bags as that can make it more difficult to stay balanced."
Fyfe also recommends walking slowly, and paying attention to where you are going. Try to walk on the crunchier snow for traction, or better yet, walk on the grass. Use handrails where available, and sand or salt areas around your home.