Jeju Fire Department Issues 'Winter Elderly Fall Accident Warning' Starting from the 21st

[Jeju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Hwang Jeongpil] The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters (Chief Park Geun-oh) announced on the 20th that, with the onset of severe cold including the recent heavy snow advisory, it will issue a ‘Winter Elderly Fall Accident Warning’ starting from the 21st.

In the past five years, a total of 48,065 fall accidents have occurred in the province, of which 11,450 (23.8%) involved elderly people aged 65 and over.

By season, winter (December to February) saw 2,915 elderly fall accidents (25.5%), the second highest after autumn (3,074 cases, 26.8%).

By location, falls at home accounted for 50.3% with 5,758 cases, representing more than half of the total. By injury type, fractures accounted for 40.3%, contusions 28.1%, lacerations (open wounds) 14.5%, and sprains/dislocations 12.4%.

By gender, the fall accident rate was much higher among elderly women (8,047 cases, 70.3%) compared to elderly men (3,403 cases, 29.7%).

The highest number of falls occurred between 8 and 9 a.m. (1,628 cases, 14.2%), when activities typically begin, and most accidents happened during daily life activities (8,212 cases, 71.7%).

Falls among the elderly can cause serious aftereffects and may directly lead to death, so special caution is required.

Prevention methods for fall accidents include ▲regular exercise to strengthen muscles ▲consulting a doctor about medications and avoiding excessive drinking ▲wearing glasses suited to one’s vision if eyesight deteriorates ▲making the home environment safe by installing non-slip treatments and handrails in places like bathrooms.

In case of a fall, it is recommended to first calm your breathing and check for injuries. If able to get up, lie on your side, then use both arms to raise your upper body and slowly stand up by leaning on a chair or other supportive furniture.

If unable to get up, maintain a comfortable position while lying down and call 119 or ask nearby people for help.

The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters plans to strengthen prevention guidance and publicity by establishing a cooperative system with related organizations along with issuing the winter elderly fall accident warning, and to establish a rapid response system for emergency patients.

A Fire Safety Headquarters official said, “Most winter elderly fall accidents occur due to carelessness, so it is very important to follow safety rules,” and added, “If it is difficult to move after a fall, maintain a comfortable position and promptly call 119 for help.”

Jeju=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Hwang Jeongpil panax33@asiae.co.kr