Watch Out for Winter Perils, Warns First4lawyers

LEEDS, England, November 7, 2011 -

Winter is upon us and brings with it a trio of weather-related perils that mean Brits are four times more likely to injure themselves whilst out and about.  

Personal Injury law specialists First4lawyers sees the number of reported falls due to slippery dead leaves, snow and ice increase dramatically throughout November and December.

November’s the month when dead leaves pose the biggest danger, with the number of people reporting injuries due to slipping over on them more than doubling compared to October. However, as December draws in, it’s ice and snow that are the main causes of trips and falls resulting in injury, with the number of reported cases increasing five-fold.  

To help Brits stay safe this winter, First4lawyers has teamed up with Jonathan Drake, a teacher of the Alexander Technique, to provide tips on improving walking skills in slippery conditions.

The Alexander Technique is a method that works to change movement habits and is a simple and practical method for improving ease and freedom of movement, balance, support and coordination.  

Adopt these tips to avoid injuring yourself on slippery surfaces this winter:

1. Many of us tend to look down when walking outside to avoid uneven surfaces and dangers but this pulls the head and neck forwards and downwards making us top-heavy. Instead, look forwards, scanning the ground as needed and you’ll be able to better rebalance yourself if you do slip.
2. Press your feet backwards as they touch the ground rather than reaching forwards - this will ensure that even if your foot slips it will slip backwards and your other foot will quickly be in place underneath you so your balance is recovered.  
3. Shorten your stride forward and lengthen it behind you - ensure your feet land directly underneath you and not in front.  

Michelle Tyler, a First4lawyer solicitor, said: “Walking around outside in winter can be hazardous and a simple trip to the shops or even the car can result in serious injury unless you are careful. By adopting the methods from the Alexander Technique you’ll be much better equipped to negotiate difficult conditions.”

First4lawyers is one of the UK’s leading companies providing marketing and legal services to solicitors specialising in Personal Injury law. For further information visit www.first4lawyers.com.

Media enquiries: Jasmine Headley, +44(0)113-394-4581, jasmine.headley@brand8pr.com).

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