Winter storm-related injuries in Oklahoma, January 2007

IntroductionA January 2007 ice storm occurred in Oklahoma, causing power outages and hazardous travel conditions. The objective of this investigation was to describe the nature of winter storm-related injuries among Oklahoma residents, to determine populations at risk, and to inform prevention-planning personnel.MethodsWinter storm-related injuries were a temporarily reportable condition; all acute-care hospitals and the state medical examiner logged storm-related injuries and deaths during January 12 − 30, 2007. Medical records were retrospectively abstracted.Risk of injury was described by demographic group, injury type, and mechanism.ResultsAmong 6,047 persons experiencing winter storm-related injuries, 74% were injured in falls, 13% in motor-vehicle collisions (MVCs), 8% while sledding, 1% by unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning, 1% in cleanup activities, and 3% by other mechanisms. Median age of injured persons was 39 years. Persons aged ≥ 40 years were 1.4 times more likely to experience falls as the cause of injury than those aged < 40 years, and falls were twice as likely as other mechanisms to cause fractures among persons aged ≥ 40 years. Injured persons aged < 40 years were 2.2 times more likely to experience MVC-related injuries, and 19 times more likely to experience sledding-related injuries than persons aged ≥ 40 years.ConclusionsYounger persons were more likely injured in MVCs and sledding incidents, whereas older persons were more likely to experience falls and fractures.Impact on industryPrevention messages for winter storm-related injuries should target winter-driving safety tips to younger adults and precautions regarding falls to older adults.

Research Highlights▶ Statewide surveillance was conducted for injuries related to an ice storm. ▶ The majority of winter storm-related injuries resulted from falls. ▶ Older persons were more likely to have been injured in falls and younger persons to suffer MVC-related injuries. ▶ Most MVCs, CO poisonings, and sledding injuries occurred early in the storm period. ▶ Target prevention messages to appropriate age groups and ahead of anticipated peak.