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Winter storm-related injuries in Oklahoma, January 2007
Emily Piercefield1, Tracy Wendling, Pam Archer
1Oklahoma State Department of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, OSELS/SEPDPO/PMR, 1600 Clifton Road, Mailstop E-92, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA. epiercefield@cdc.gov
Journal of Safety Research
|March 12, 2011
Summary
Oklahoma ice storm injuries disproportionately affected different age groups. Younger individuals sustained more motor-vehicle collision and sledding injuries, while older adults experienced higher rates of falls and fractures.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- A severe ice storm in Oklahoma during January 2007 resulted in widespread power outages and dangerous travel conditions.
- This study aimed to characterize winter storm-related injuries in Oklahoma residents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the nature and mechanisms of winter storm-related injuries.
- To identify specific populations at increased risk.
- To inform public health prevention strategies for future winter events.
Main Methods:
- Winter storm-related injuries were a reportable condition from January 12-30, 2007.
- Data were collected from acute-care hospitals and the state medical examiner.
- Medical records were retrospectively analyzed to determine injury type, mechanism, and demographic risk factors.
Main Results:
- A total of 6,047 winter storm-related injuries were recorded.
- Falls accounted for 74% of injuries, followed by motor-vehicle collisions (13%) and sledding (8%).
- Individuals aged 40 and older were more likely to sustain fractures from falls, while those younger than 40 were more prone to motor-vehicle collision and sledding injuries.
Conclusions:
- Injury patterns varied by age, with younger individuals more susceptible to motor-vehicle collision and sledding incidents.
- Older adults faced a higher risk of falls and associated fractures during winter storms.
- Targeted prevention messages are crucial: winter driving safety for younger populations and fall prevention for older adults.
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