Fall Prevention

1. Explain to the class that they are going to be learning about falls hazards and prevention, specifically related to weather and the physical environment outside. Ask the class what they think could be some falls hazards related to weather and the outside physical environment - answers may include: ice and snow, darkness or poorly lit places, wet surfaces, broken sidewalks, cluttered sidewalks, loose gravel. Slips, trips and falls tend to be more frequent in rainy or icy weather, in darkness, when walking on uneven surfaces.

a. There are many ways to prevent falls related to weather and the physical environment. Ask the class to brainstorm some ideas. What are some ways in which you can prevent or reduce the risk of falls due to weather or the physical environment?

i. Stay alert at all times but even more so when weather conditions are bad.
ii. Do not use your phone when on the move.
iii. Wipe your shoes on a doormat when entering a building during wet weather (rain, snow, hail, etc.).
iv. Repair broken sidewalks and keep them clear from clutter.
v. Use handrails when going up or down stairs.
vi. Watch out for ice, cracks and uneven surfaces while walking. When walking on ice, take small, slow steps, keep your head up and do not lean forward. Keep your hands out of your pockets to help keep your balance. For tips on walking outside, learn how to walk like a penguin by reading this information sheet or watch this video.
vii. Walk, don’t run, on the deck of a pool because it is slippery.
viii. Shovel sidewalks and paths and keep clear from snow and ice to prevent falls.
ix. Use sand or ice melt to help provide traction on icy patches on sidewalks.
x. When using a ladder, stand it on flat ground. Keep off the highest two steps of the ladder. Do not reach to the side or push or pull anything while on the ladder. Always keep 3 points of contact with the ladder (i.e. two hands and one foot, two feet and one hand).
xi. Wear slip-resistant shoes.
xii. Put out signs to indicate if floors are wet.
xiii. Take the elevator when carrying large items.
xiv. Use a flashlight or headlamp in poorly lit places.

b. Now that the class has learned about falls hazards and falls prevention - engage the class in a group discussion using the following question: Imagine you are the school custodian, what are some things you would think about to keep your students safe from falling outside. (Hints: Physical infrastructure, weather, environment).

2. Explain to the class that you will now be discussing the basics of first aid that can help if someone has been injured by a fall. Upload and present the 'First Aid Basics' slides, which can be found here: First Aid Basics.

a. Note: speaking notes can be found in the slides.
b. In addition - discuss with the class the following acronym RICE for first aid of sprains and strains:

i. For injuries to joints, ligaments (sprains), or muscles (strains), use the acronym RICE to remember what to do and while waiting for medical help to arrive if needed:

• • • R - Rest
    • I - Immobilize
    • C - Cold
    • E - Elevate

Rest means stopping the activity that caused the injury and waiting for it to heal or until a medical professional tells you it's okay to continue.
Immobilize means taking steps to prevent movement of the injured limb. Might include a sling or splint.
Cold means applying cold to the injury as soon the injury has been immobilized. You could use the cold pack from a first aid kit.
Elevate means raising the injured part if possible and as long as it doesn’t cause more pain or harm. Elevation helps to reduce swelling.

c. During the presentation, pass around the first aid kit for students to look at.

i. Once the discussion about basic first aid and treating minor injuries has been had, ask the class to think about what they should do if there was a major injury? Major injuries are those that involve lots of bleeding, including punctures, gashes, or large wounds and require the help of a professional to treat.

• • • First, call 911 or ask an adult to help call 911
    • Tell 911 that you need an ambulance and the circumstances of the injury if known
    • If the person is bleeding, try to stop the bleeding by applying clean towels, gauze or bandages to the wound and applying pressure
    • If possible, elevate the wound above the heart
    • Wait for help to arrive

3. Following the First Aid Basics presentation above, instruct students that they will now prepare a blog post on the basics of first aid using the Blog Post First Aid Kit worksheet. Students’ blog posts should include:

a. A list of common materials that can be found in a basic first aid kit.

i. Answers could include - antiseptic wipes / alcohol swabs, bandages, gauze, protective gloves and face shield / face barrier, instant cold pack, tape and safety pins, tweezers, scissors,
flashlight and a first aid manual.
ii. A brief description of how the contents in the kit may be used to treat minor injuries could include:

• • • Minor cuts and scrapes - use antiseptic wipes / alcohol swabs to clean wounds followed by gauze and / or bandage.
    • Muscle sprains - gauze tape and safety pins may be used as a wrap to immobilize sprains, followed by placing the instant cold pack to reduce swelling.
    • Protective equipment - wearing disposable gloves and face mask helps practice good hygiene when treating others with minor injuries involving bodily fluids.