Weather-related emergencies on the rise, says Medical City Decatur
Decatur, Ga. — As freezing temperatures and icy conditions continue across North Texas, the Medical City Decatur emergency department is seeing a significant rise in cold weather-related injuries. Emergency department Medical Director Michael Hong, MD, is urging the community to take extra precautions to stay safe.
“Our emergency team has treated car accident injuries, wrist fractures, hip fractures and head injuries from slip-and-fall accidents on the ice,” says Dr. Hong. “Most of these injuries happen in a split second and often on ice the patient did not see. A single patch of ice can change everything.”
Dr. Hong also warns against sleds behind vehicles. “It may seem fun in the moment,” he added, “But sledding behind a moving car is extremely dangerous. We have seen preventable injuries that can lead to long-term complications. I cannot emphasize this enough: please don’t do it.”
In addition to fall‑related injuries, Dr. Hong stresses the importance of monitoring older adults during extended periods of freezing weather. Within poorly heated homes, seniors can experience mild hypothermia, sometimes without realizing it.
“When temperatures remain low for days, older adults are especially vulnerable,” Dr. Hong explained. “If a home is not consistently warm, or if someone is conserving heat, their body temperature can drop gradually. Confusion, shivering or extreme tiredness can all be warning signs.”
He encourages residents to stay off the roads whenever possible, wear layered clothing, choose proper footwear with good traction, and check on elderly family members, friends and neighbors, who may have a harder time navigating icy walkways or may hesitate to ask for help.
Dr. Hong added, “We know winter storms can disrupt routines, but your safety matters. A little caution can prevent serious injuries. Please take care of yourselves and each other.”