Fall, trip or slip hazards

Tripping or slipping due to loss of footing or traction is the main cause of falls, which is why it is imperative that you wear sturdy boots or shoes when attending any animal related activity.

Slips, trips and falls are a common cause of injuries. Taking the time to identify hazards, wear appropriate footwear and assess your surroundings before commencing any WIRES activity can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

There are many factors that can cause you to slip or fall, those being:

• Slippery or uneven floors and pathways
• Obscured visibility due to objects or lighting
• Inappropriate footwear
• Carrying heavy or large loads without assistance
• Objects laying on the ground

Safety tips to avoid falling or tripping:

• Take the time to assess the rescue site for obstacles before proceeding
• Identify alternative routes that may be more easily accessible
• Look for possible hand or foot holds
• Determine the actions you may take to control/lessen these risks