Recent wintry weather results in over 470 hospital visits across NHS Grampian.
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Surge in hospital visits due to icy conditions
Recent wintry weather has led to a significant increase in hospital visits in Elgin, with more than 40 residents seeking treatment for falls. The icy conditions have made roads and paths treacherous, prompting many to visit accident and emergency departments.
Since the beginning of the year, NHS Grampian has reported that 470 individuals have been treated for injuries related to slips and falls, highlighting the dangers posed by winter weather.
Elgin tops the list for hospital attendances
The IV30 postcode area, which encompasses Elgin, has emerged as the location with the highest number of hospital visits due to falls during the recent cold snap.
In total, 48 residents from Elgin attended hospitals, surpassing other areas such as AB24 and AB15. Forres and Lossiemouth also reported notable figures, with 18 and 11 attendances respectively. The data indicates that the icy conditions have had a widespread impact across the region, affecting many residents.
Emergency services respond to increased demand
Emergency departments at local hospitals, including Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Dr. Gray’s in Elgin, have been under pressure due to the influx of patients. On January 7, the number of casualties peaked at 64, with daily visits remaining consistently high in the following weeks. NHS Grampian has urged residents to exercise caution, recommending that individuals adopt a “walk like a penguin” approach to navigate the slippery surfaces safely. The health board has also advised postponing non-essential outings until conditions improve.
Local council’s response to winter weather
In response to the challenging weather conditions, Moray Council has been actively managing road safety. A spokesperson noted that the IV30 area, being the most populated, naturally correlates with higher accident rates during adverse weather. The council has deployed winter maintenance teams to plough and grit roads, treating over 9,000 miles and using more than 3,600 tonnes of salt. Despite their efforts, the council acknowledges the limitations of their resources and prioritizes treatment routes based on need.
Community safety measures and advice
As the region continues to face weather warnings for snow and ice, residents are encouraged to take proactive measures to ensure their safety. The council plans to refill local grit bins and maintain road safety as conditions evolve. NHS Grampian’s advice to grit personal paths and driveways can help mitigate risks associated with icy conditions. As the community navigates these challenges, cooperation and caution are essential to prevent further accidents and ensure public safety.
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