Weathering the Storm: Amputee Safety in Extreme Conditions

Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, wind, ice and snow can be difficult to walk in for anyone…

But these conditions are especially dangerous for amputees, people with limb absence and people with other physical disabilities. The risk for slipping, falling or hurting yourself can be higher with relying on prosthetics, crutches and wheelchairs to hold you in place.

Here’s a little list of tips if you struggle in these conditions, and don’t forget to let us know if you have any useful ones of your own.

The Dangers of Extreme Rain:

• Slippery Surfaces: Rain creates slippery conditions, increasing the risk of falls as well as making traction difficult for manual and power wheelchairs. This is especially concerning for amputees who may have balance issues or use mobility aids. Wet surfaces can cause crutches or walkers to slip, prosthetics to lose traction on wet pavement or grass, and wheels to slip leading to loss of control.
• Reduced Traction for Prosthetics: These days prosthetics are designed with various materials to provide grip, but heavy rain can significantly reduce their effectiveness which can make walking difficult and increase the likelihood of slips and falls.
• Soaked Prosthetic Liners: Wet liners can cause skin irritation, blisters, and even infections. This is particularly problematic for amputees with sensitive skin or those prone to skin breakdown.
• Poor Visibility: Rain can reduce visibility, making it harder for pedestrians and drivers to see wheelchair users.

Safety Tips for Rainy Weather:

• Choose Proper Footwear: Consider using shoes with good traction and avoid smooth soles. Consider using waterproof boots or shoes to keep your feet dry, prosthetic or otherwise!
• Protect yourself: Use wheelchair rain covers and waterproof clothing to stay dry. This is especially useful over your legs in heavy rain as when you’re sitting in the wheelchair, the rain can and will soak through to your skin.
• Use Mobility Aids with Caution: If you use crutches, a cane, or a walker, be extra careful on wet surfaces. Ensure the rubber ends are in good condition and provide decent grip. Allow extra time for getting to places and use these aids to your benefit when needed.
• Protect Your Liner: Use waterproof covers, trousers or bags to protect your prosthetic liner from getting wet. If it does get wet, dry it thoroughly as soon as you are able to.
• Be Mindful of Terrain: Avoid walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, such as wet grass or gravel. Stick to paved paths and sidewalks whenever possible. Opt for all-weather tyres if possible for improved grip.
• Be Seen: Consider attaching reflective tape or lights to your wheelchair for increased visibility.

The Challenges of Strong Winds:

• Balance Issues: Strong winds can make it difficult to maintain balance, especially for amputees with stability issues. This can increase the risk of falls and injuries. For wheelchair users, strong gusts of wind can push a wheelchair off course, make it difficult to manoeuvre, or even cause a loss of balance. Power wheelchair users with lightweight models may be at risk of tipping over.
• Difficulty with Mobility Aids: Wind can make it challenging to use crutches, canes, or walkers effectively. It can push against these aids, making them unstable and difficult to control.
• Prosthetic Concerns: Strong gusts can catch and move prosthetics unexpectedly, potentially causing stumbles or falls. Lightweight prosthetics can be particularly vulnerable to this.

Safety Tips for Windy Conditions:

• Stay Aware: Pay close attention to wind conditions and be prepared for sudden gusts, and even consider walking closer to walls, fences and street lamps so you have something to hold onto if a wind does happen to catch you. Consider travelling with a companion in windy conditions.
• Secure Your Prosthesis: Ensure your prosthesis is properly fitted and secured to minimize the risk of it being affected by the wind. The last thing any amputee needs is to be chasing their leg down the street!
• Wheelchair safety: Maintain a low centre of gravity and keep a firm grip on the wheels. You might consider getting some grip tape to help with this or even asking your health centre for wheels with gripped rims.
• Use Caution with Mobility Aids: If you use a mobility aid, be extra cautious in windy conditions. Consider using a heavier or more stable aid if possible, and remember to take your time.
• Clothing: Wear wind-resistant clothing and don’t wear items that are too loose as they may catch the wind and either push you around, or fly away from you.
• Seek Shelter: If the wind is too strong, seek shelter indoors or in a protected area and wait for the weather to calm down before going back out.

The Hazards of Extreme Cold:

• Reduced Blood Flow: Cold temperatures can restrict blood vessels, potentially leading to numbness, discomfort, and even tissue damage in the residual limb.
• Stiffness and Discomfort: Cold weather can make joints and muscles stiff, affecting mobility and increasing discomfort for amputees.
• Prosthetic Challenges: Cold temperatures can affect the function of prosthetics, manual wheelchairs and power wheelchairs. Materials can become rigid, and batteries may lose power more quickly.

Safety Tips for Cold Weather:

• Dress Warmly: Layer clothing to trap heat and protect your residual limb from the cold. Consider using specialized cold-weather gear designed for amputees.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise can help improve circulation and keep muscles warm. However, avoid strenuous activity in extremely cold temperatures.
• Monitor Your Skin: Check your residual limb regularly for signs of frostbite or other cold-related injuries.
• Prosthetic Care: Keep your prosthesis warm and dry. If you use a battery-powered prosthesis or power wheelchair, keep spare batteries warm and readily available.

The Treacherous Nature of Ice and Snow:

• Loss of Traction: Ice and snow significantly reduce traction, making walking extremely hazardous, especially for amputees. Prosthetics can easily lose their grip, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
• Wheelchair users: Ice is one of the most dangerous conditions for wheelchair users. Even a thin layer can make it almost impossible for wheels to gain traction, increasing the risk of tipping over. Power wheelchair users may struggle with control, while manual wheelchair users can have difficulty propelling themselves forward.
• Hidden Obstacles: Snow can conceal uneven surfaces, potholes, or icy patches, making it difficult to navigate safely. This can be particularly dangerous for amputees who may have difficulty reacting quickly to unexpected changes in terrain.
• Increased Exertion: Walking on snow or ice requires more energy and effort, which can be tiring and challenging for amputees. This can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of falls.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Exposure to cold temperatures and snow can increase sensitivity in the residual limb, leading to discomfort or pain.

Safety Tips for Icy and Snowy Conditions:

• Wheelchair Safety: Avoid travelling during icy conditions if possible, but if you do need to go out, you can give yourself extra grip by using tyre grips or chains for extra traction. Consider asking a loved one for assistance in case you and your wheelchair get stuck somewhere.
• Use Assistive Devices: Consider using assistive devices like canes, crutches, walkers with ice grips, or ice grips for walking shoes for added stability.
• Plan Your Route: Avoid areas with steep slopes or uneven surfaces. Choose well-maintained paths and sidewalks that have been cleared of snow and ice, or well gritted – this can make a big difference in how well your prosthetics or wheels grip onto surfaces.
• Take Your Time: Walk or wheel slowly and carefully, paying close attention to your surroundings. Avoid rushing or taking shortcuts.
• Stay Warm: Dress warmly in layers to protect yourself from the cold and keep your residual limb warm.
• Clear the Way: Consider carrying a small shovel to clear minor obstacles.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: If possible, limit your time outdoors during icy and snowy conditions. If you must go out, let someone know your plans and take extra precautions.
• Transport: Consider using public transport or assistance services where possible to minimise the amount of travelling you need to do by paths.

Final thoughts: 

While weather conditions can be unpredictable and challenging, proper preparation and awareness can help wheelchair users navigate safely. By taking proactive measures, taking your time, seeking assistance when necessary, advocating for better accessibility in public spaces, prosthetic and wheelchair users can minimize risks and maintain their independence, no matter the weather.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed!