Avoid slip-sliding into winter injuries: ACC
Winter has arrived and with it come the inevitable hazardous conditions that cause injury.
During the 2024 winter season, more than 11,800 Otago residents made claims to the Accident Compensation Corporation for injuries that occurred around their homes and a further 4458 Southlanders also claimed, costing a total of nearly $20 million to help them recover.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker said as temperatures dropped outside, New Zealanders started to spend more time inside.
But ACC statistics showed people were more likely to get injured around their home than anywhere else.
"This is because we spend a lot of time at home and are probably more laid back than we might be in a work environment, which probably has a lot of safety measures in place."
Winter conditions were also more hazardous, he said.
Nationwide last year, ACC received 237,007 claims for injuries that occurred around the home during winter, costing $290 million to help people recover.
Most injury claims in 2024 were from people aged 50-64.
"It's important to be extra cautious around any potentially icy or slippery surfaces outside.
"A nasty fall can have serious implications on your own physical and mental health, as well as on those around you.
"If you hurt yourself slipping over, you might not be able to be as involved with your kids or grandchildren and your workmates may need to take on some of your tasks."
Mr Whitaker said the most prevalent accident cause last winter was loss of balance/personal control (65,310), followed by lifting/carrying/strain (45,365), and slipping and skidding on foot (18,618).
Most injury claims were for soft tissue injuries (150,738), followed by lacerations/punctures/stings (42,667) and fractures/dislocations (14,541).
"The second-biggest danger in the home is moving stuff around — lifting, carrying and straining account for around 18% of all home-related injuries.
"Too often we're trying to lift things that are way too heavy, way too bulky and awkward and we're doing it in ways that hurt.
"Think — is this the best way to carry in my firewood? Could I do it in a few smaller loads or with a wheelbarrow to stay injury free?
"The same goes with washing. Moving a few lighter loads is far better than piling everything into a basket all at once.
"Regardless of what you're moving, have a nice straight back, avoid twisting and try to keep it as light as possible."
john.lewis@odt.co.nz
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