| Posted March 6, 2015 | By Amanda Daniel, R.N. | Categorized under Families, Men's Health, Women's Health |

Falling on icy and snowy walkways is one of the most common causes of injury. Hospitals throughout Middle Tennessee, including here at Williamson Medical Center, have been busy treating a high volume of broken hips, sprained ankles and twisted knees due to the treacherous winter conditions. If you have to leave your house, please take note of a few safety tips to help you avoid an unwanted trip to the emergency room.

• Before you leave the house, pour salt, sand, or kitty litter on high traffic surfaces that might be slippery.  
   
• Take note of your surroundings and avoid icy patches. Walk slowly across parking lots and sidewalks. Black ice is often not noticed until it's too late.  
   
• Wear sturdy shoes with a good amount of tread. Shoes with low or no tread can cause you to slip. Avoid high heels!
   
• Elderly people are at greater risk of falling, which can lead to broken hips. If you help care for an elderly loved one and you must leave the house, be sure to hold on to them to provide extra stability while walking and to catch them if they slip.