The CDC says falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, and 43 percent of those fatal falls involved a ladder.
September is Fall Prevention Month and although they may seem unavoidable in the moment, learning how to fall correctly could help save you from broken bones, torn muscles, lost wages, massive medical bills, and long recoveries.
To avoid breaks and fractures, relax the tension in your body. Protect your head by tucking your chin. Shift your weight to land on your side.
The most common places to fall are the stairs, bathroom, living room and garden.
Each year, one in four people over 64 years old will fall on the stairs, 13 percent of older adults are injured in the bathroom, 31 percent will take a tumble in the living room, and 23 percent will slip in the garden.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and try to keep pathways clear.