‘Walk like a penguin!’

Health Board appeal to keep safe during cold snap

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging the public to walk like penguins to help avoid slips and trips in the icy conditions this week.

Adopting a penguin walk is a safer way to get about in the cold weather as it could help keep you more stable and minimise the risk of losing balance or slipping on the ice.

Top tips to walk like a penguin:

·      Bend slightly and keep your knees loose.

·      Point your feet out slightly.

·      Extend your arms at your sides.

·      Walk flat-footed, taking short steps.

·      Keep your centre of gravity over your feet.

In the event of a slip, trip or fall which requires medical attention, but is not very urgent or life-threatening, the health board is advising people not to go straight to A&E but instead to call NHS24 on 111.

Dr Emilia Crighton, director for public health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “At this time of year – and especially in icy spells like this one – slips, trips and falls are the most common accidents that result in injury.

“While it might seem silly to walk or waddle like a penguin, the alternative may be a nasty injury or even time in hospital. Remember, when it comes to getting around on ice, penguins know best, so when you’re out and about in the next few days, adopting the penguin stance is a really effective way to move without falling.

“During this time we should also make sure we’re supporting our elderly family members and neighbours by making journeys on their behalf to avoid them having to go out in icy conditions.”

Dr Crighton also reminded people that, in the majority of cases involving slips and trips, going to A&E may not be appropriate.

She said: “A&E is there to help the sickest people and treat the most urgent emergencies, and we would always advise anyone who thinks their condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening to call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

“However, most falls and trips do not require treatment at A&E – and in fact you might be asked to seek help elsewhere if you arrive at A&E inappropriately.

“If assessment is required, our Minor Injuries Units are often best placed to carry that out, so we would urge anyone who has suffered a fall to call NHS24 on 111. They will be able to give you the advice you need, including directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit if required.”

This winter, NHSGGC has launched a campaign to help people know where to go to access the care they need.

Care for a wide range of injuries is available without going to A&E – often from the comfort of your own home or right on your doorstep – and the health board is encouraging everyone to familiarise themselves with these alternatives, just in case.  

Accessing the right care is as easy as A,B,C:

Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Inform or download the NHS24 app.

Be aware: There is help on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services. Pharmacies provide these services without the need for an appointment.

Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.

Unless it’s an emergency, please think ABC before going to A&E.

For more information on the best ways to access care, go to the NHSGGC website