By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
HaysMed reported 25 injuries from ice and falls during a statewide snowstorm on the weekend of Jan. 4-5.
Dr. Nathan Smith of HaysMed said that weekend was one of their busiest and most severe days during a winter storm.
"We definitely have lots of falls when there's ice or snow outside, but this was even worse than our typical winter weather," Smith said.
Smith said several ice-related injuries led to hip fractures and even a brain bleed, posing challenges due to the bad weather and the closest neurosurgeons typically located in Wichita.
"If you fall and have a bad accident that we cannot take care of, it might be a matter of us sitting with you in the emergency room and monitoring you," he said.
Smith said ice and fall-related injuries persisted after the weekend snowstorm, as hidden ice beneath the snow remained a hazard while people shoveled their driveways.
Most of the individuals who sustained hip fractures were older than 60 due to the increased fragility of their bones.
"Your balance isn't quite as good as it once was," Smith said.
Smith advises staying indoors unless necessary and preparing ahead of time to avoid leaving the house for several days. Otherwise, wear good traction shoes and keep your hands free to maintain the best possible balance.
"There was a ton of ice underneath, and that didn't help anyone at all," Smith said.
While no frostbite injuries were reported, Smith suggests people stay warm by dressing in layers.
While highs are set to increase into the upper 40s as the week progresses, arctic air will be back in Hays during the weekend. Highs are forecast in the low 20s on Saturday and Sunday, with a 20-30 percent chance of snow on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.
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