VMLIP is launching a new Slips, Trips, & Falls Initiative designed to minimize the frequency and severity of slips, trips and falls from ice and snow. The program is targeted specifically for members with law enforcement or public safety personnel.
Over the past five years, VMLIP’s law enforcement and public safety losses associated with slips and falls on ice or snow have accounted for 90 claims with a total incurred cost of $385,663. This accounts for approximately $4,285 per claim. The most common injuries associated with these falls are back strain, knee injuries, and injuries to the head, arm, and other body parts.
These incidents are more likely to take place between 6 and 8 a.m., from the months of January to February. Head injuries can be catastrophic and costly. The most expensive claim to-date for law enforcement/public safety officers suffering a slip was $243,129.
The Slips, Trips, & Falls Initiative requires participants to implement a training program on preventing slips, trips, and falls, with specific emphasis on preventing falls on ice and snow. It also requires participating entities to develop and require acknowledgement of entity-wide safety policies to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Once the criteria for the program is met, participating members will receive a FREE pair of Yaktrax spikeless traction shoe covers.
Yaktrax is a spikeless rubber device which slips over your boot or shoe and provides ice-biting traction thanks to its SkidLock steel coil design. The flexible, natural rubber strapping conforms to your foot without hindering your natural step, and Yaktrax also added a hook-and-loop strap to keep your foot securely locked in. When you get to your destination, the Yaktrax pack up small until it’s time to head back onto the ice and snow.
“Instituting a simple practice and policy requiring officers to utilize slip resistant footwear can significantly reduce officer injury, claims to the entity, and costs to VMLIP and our membership,” said VMLIP Director of Safety Services Beth Rosenthal. “This is a voluntary behavior-based safety program being implemented to help minimize the frequency and severity of slips and falls from ice and snow.”
The program is only one component of a robust slip, trip and fall prevention program. If your law enforcement agency is interested in participating in this initiative, contact your safety consultant at (800) 963-6800 or Thomas Bullock, tbullock@vmlins.org, for more information.
For more information and detailed requirements, visit the initiative web page here.