Gordon Graham
Category: Public Safety

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. And Today’s Tip deals with on-duty injury prevention.

There are actually a bunch of other injuries that are much more common and can be just as debilitating as those we usually associate with the job.

When I mention on-duty injury, what do you think of? Injuries from auto accidents? Bumps, bruises, scrapes, sprains or broken bones from fighting with a bad guy? Maybe even getting shot or stabbed? There are actually a bunch of other injuries that are much more common and can be just as debilitating as those we usually associate with the job.

Unfortunately, we are just as prone to the more mundane back injuries and fall injuries as anyone else. Falling down stairs, tripping over cords or open file cabinets in the office, slipping on ice or slippery surfaces, falling when getting out of vehicles, pose risks no matter our assignment. The difference may be that many times we are moving a little faster or in more of a hurry than we should be. This can increase our risk for these preventable injuries.

Some of these can happen quickly-like the slip leading to a sudden and unexpected trip down a flight of stairs; a twisted ankle or knee that requires extended recovery time and physical therapy. Others can be insidious, like back pain or arthritis; occurring slowly over time as our bodies experience the wear and tear from the added weight of our duty gear or pounds we pack on. They start out as a nuisance only to become debilitating as you get older.

The basic fundamentals of workplace safety apply to everyone. Watch what you’re doing. Slow down. Focus on routine, non-emergency daily activities that could cause injury and practice the fundamental principles of workplace safety.

And that is Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham signing off.