Jeju Fire Department Issues 'Winter Elderly Fall Accident Warning' on 28th

The Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Fire Safety Headquarters will issue an early "Winter Elderly Fall Accident Advisory" on the 28th to prevent casualties from fall accidents caused by environmental and physical factors as the winter season begins in earnest.

According to the Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters on the 29th, a total of 45,730 fall accidents occurred in the Jeju area over the past five years (2018?2022), with the proportion of elderly people aged 65 and over accounting for 27.3% (12,497 people).

The proportion of elderly among fall accident victims has been steadily increasing, with 2,702 cases last year, marking a 9.9% (244 people) increase compared to the previous year.

Elderly Fall Accident Warning Card News.
[Photo by Jeju Fire Department]

The incidence rate of fall accidents among women was 69.7% (8,715 people), twice as high as that of men, and by time of day, the highest number of casualties occurred between 8 and 9 a.m., with 1,633 cases (13.1%).

Additionally, 39.5% (4,940 people) of all cases resulted in fractures due to falls, followed by contusions and abrasions at 28.1% (3,516 people), and open wounds at 14.7% (1,835 people).

Notably, more than half of the fall accident victims, 50.2% (6,276 people), fell at home, highlighting the need for special caution in daily life.

The Jeju Fire Safety Headquarters plans to strengthen accident prevention publicity by disseminating safety rules in cooperation with related organizations along with issuing the winter elderly fall accident advisory, and establish a rapid response system upon receiving reports.

In case of a fall accident, ▲ if able to get up, it is recommended to lie on the side first, then slowly rise by supporting the upper body with the arms while leaning on furniture. ▲ If unable to get up, remain comfortably in the fallen position and call 119 or ask nearby people for help.

Kim Suhwan, head of the Fire Safety Headquarters, said, "Elderly fall accidents can lead to severe physical injuries, so special caution is necessary," and added, "It is important to regularly check for accident risk factors at home and consistently engage in exercises that improve physical functions."

Jeju = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Hwang Jeongpil baekok@asiae.co.kr

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.