With winter upon us, the number of falls due to icy conditions will be on the increase.Those 65 and older are most at risk, and traumatic brain injuries, broken hips and fractured pelvises are the most common injuries caused by falls.

According to Director of Washington County Public Health Danielle Pettit-Majewski, using handrails when using stairs and taking small steps are two major ways to avoid an accident. She says regular exercise is another way to prevent falls, as it improves your balance and coordination.

In 2012, there were 12,800 deaths in the United States related to falls, and 1.6 million fall related visits to the emergency room.