NHS Lanarkshire issued a warning on 7 January 2026 that the current cold snap has brought a noticeable rise in patients attending its A&E departments with orthopaedic injuries caused by slips and falls on ice, particularly among older adults. The health board said icy conditions, shorter daylight hours and cold weather can significantly increase the risk of falls and injuries.
Arwel Williams, Director of Acute Services at NHS Lanarkshire, said emergency departments were under significant pressure and that many of the injuries were preventable:
"our A&E departments are under significant pressure, and we are seeing a signficant increase in people attending with orthopaedic injuries caused by slips and falls on ice"
The board said many falls also happen indoors, citing loose rugs, trailing cables, cluttered walkways, poor lighting and everyday items such as magazines, children's toys, pet bowls and footwear as trip hazards, particularly in low-light conditions. Peter McCrossan, Director of Allied Health Professions, said ice, snow and wet conditions make pavements and paths especially hazardous for older adults and people with mobility challenges.
The board's outdoor advice covers footwear and walking technique, and its indoor advice covers the home:
| Outdoors | Indoors |
|---|---|
| Shoes or boots with good grip, non-slip soles and ankle support | Keep floors and stairs clear and secure rugs with non-slip backing |
| The "Penguin Walk": centre of gravity over the feet, shorter steps, going slowly | Arrange furniture to allow clear walking routes |
| Clear driveways, paths and steps of snow and ice using grit or sand | Good lighting in hallways, on stairs and at night |
| Fit walking aids such as sticks or frames with non-slip rubber ferrules | Regular eye tests and up-to-date glasses prescriptions |
| Dress warmly in layers and wear reflective clothing | A home safety check for loose rugs, trailing cables and clutter |
| Plan ahead to avoid rushing, and seek help from family, friends or neighbours | A medication review by a healthcare professional, as some medicines can affect balance |
On what to do after a fall, the board said people should seek help promptly if there is pain or difficulty moving, and that for minor falls without injury, furniture or walking aids can be used to get back to their feet and rest carefully.
Why it matters for households
The warning applies to households across Lanarkshire during the current cold snap, with older adults and people with mobility challenges named as most at risk. The board links the rise in injuries to pressure on its A&E departments, and its directors said taking simple steps outdoors protects individuals and helps reduce pressure on emergency services. The board's Falls Team provides advice on fall prevention and rehabilitation, and the Falls Register Hub can be contacted on 01698 753734. Further information is listed at www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/preventing-falls1. Practical guidance on walking on ice and on staying well in cold weather is also available.
What happens next
No further dates or steps have been announced. The board said its staff are working extremely hard across its hospitals during what it called this challenging winter period1.
Sources (1)
- NHS Lanarkshire urges extra care as icy weather increases risk of falls and injuries - NHS Lanarkshire, nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
Walking on Ice Safely
Staying Well in Cold Weather
