There is an enclosed skating rink at the end of Denise Foucher's street, but it wasn't necessary when the very street in their Colllege Heights cul-de-sac began serving the same purpose.
After a few days of freezing rain, Foucher's kids had perfect ice for skating right on the street.
Most Prince George residential streets have no sidewalks, so pedestrians are at the mercy of road conditions, which all too often have been downright deadly.
Icy streets and slippery entranceways come with the territory in winter, and that leads to falls, some of which are bad enough to land people in the hospital.
Young bones heal quickly, but for seniors, the general rule is, the older you are, the longer it takes to get back on your feet.
This just happens to be the time of year (from January through March) when 70 per cent falls occur for Canadians.
About one in three seniors over the age 65 will have at least one fall this year, some that cause serious injuries. Close to 40 per cent of fall-related hospital stays involve a hip fracture.
As Northern Health Authority's injury prevention co-ordinator, Foucher says the best way to avoid falls is to wear proper footwear. Winter boots and ice cleats for shoes are usually quite effective keeping feet from slipping.
"I've used ice grippers for probably 10 years and I think people are using them," said Foucher. "They were flying off the shelf at Costco. It doesn't matter what kind you buy, as long as you're actually using them properly. Just don't use them if you're walking across a tile floor, because then you might have another slipping issue."
Here are the Canadian Institute of Health's top-10 tips to help seniors prevent falls this winter:
1. Check your traction. Wear appropriate shoes and boots and use anti-slip shoe devices to avoid a fall in icy conditions.
2. Slow down. Falls often occur when you're in a rush.
3. Stay connected. Let people know your plans and take a phone with you when you leave the house.
4. Take your vitamins. Vitamin D and calcium play an important role in building muscle strength and bone health. During the winter, when sunlight is in short supply, eat foods high in Vitamin D and calcium and/or take supplements to get the recommended daily intake.
5. Stay active. Strong muscles and bones prevent falls and help you get around safely. If winter conditions make it unsafe to exercise outdoors, work on strengthening and balance indoors.
6. Store ice-melting compounds and a shovel indoors to avoid slipping while on your way to the garage or storage shed to get it.
7. Keep steps and pathways clear. Check railings and ensure they are sturdy.
8. Ask for help. Most people are happy to help an older person navigate across a slippery sidewalk or parking lot.
9. Have a plan. If you fall, what would you do? Being prepared can assist in getting help as quickly as possible, and may even save your life.
10. Ask yourself if you are at risk.
More information is available at:
www.seniorsbc.ca/stayingindependent
