How to Fall

Slips, trips and falls are the leading cause of injuries in the woods. They can cause back injuries, sprains, strains, broken bones, severe head injuries, paralysis, and even fatalities. Falls are generally of two basic types: same-level falls and elevated falls. This article focuses on the prevention of same-level falls (i.e., where the fall exposure is from an elevation that is no more than 4 feet in height). It provides steps to reduce or avoid potential hazards and minimizing the risk of injury should a fall occur.

Protect yourself should a fall occur

If you start to fall, there are ways you can reduce the likelihood and severity of injury. The best way to fall depends on the situation, which includes your surrounding conditions and the type of fall. Below are some strategies that may help. If you try visualizing these ahead of time, you may react better when the time comes.

If you fall forward, in general do not reach out to break the fall with your hands or elbows. Instead, try to:

Tuck your chin in.
Turn your head to one side.
Turn your body the same way.
Tuck in your elbows, and
Fall onto your side or shoulder and roll

If you fall backwards, try to avoid reaching out to break the fall with your hands or elbows. Instead, bend your knees and elbows, tuck your chin, and twist or roll your body to the side. It is better to land on your buttocks or side than on your back.

After a fall, if you think you are seriously injured, don't move; instead call and wait for help.

Key rules for avoiding slips, trips, and falls

Wear appropriate footwear.

Maintain constant awareness of your surroundings.

Survey the area for potential slip, trip, and fall hazards, and plan your route.

Remove debris, and other slip and trip hazards, along the work path where possible and appropriate.

While hiking:

Face the direction you are hiking, scan for hazards, and be alert.
Avoid wet or slippery surfaces when possible. Use caution if you must walk on these surfaces.