Operation “Roar of the Lion”: over 400 Israelis were injured during the alarms

According to the data, the serious injuries were recorded mainly among those aged 65 and over, an age group known to be more vulnerable to falls and bruises. However, the Ministry of Health data show that another age group in which a high incidence of injuries was recorded is the 20 to 30 year olds, apparently due to fast movement under pressure during the alarms.

The Ministry of Health states that in most cases these are injuries caused by falls, slips or collisions with objects while arriving at the protected area. The sense of urgency and pressure to quickly reach a protected place sometimes leads to running, hastily descending stairs or moving in partial lighting conditions, situations that increase the risk of injury.

In light of the injury data, the Ministry of Health publishes a series of instructions to the public designed to reduce the risk of injuries. The first recommendation is to prepare in advance and define the nearest and safest protected space that must be reached in case of an alarm. The office also recommends practicing the way to the protected area to make sure it can be reached quickly and safely, both in the evening and in changing lighting conditions.

The Ministry of Health also recommends removing obstacles from the road to the protected space inside and around the house. Objects such as chairs, small carpets, electric cables, flower pots and unnecessary objects can cause tripping or slipping while moving quickly. The office even recommends removing carpets that are not fixed to the floor.

Lighting plays a key role in preventing falls. Therefore, it is recommended to leave a light on on the way to the protected space or consider installing night lighting or motion sensors in corridors and staircases.

The Ministry of Health mentions that the first warning given before the alarm makes it possible to start organizing and approaching the protected area even before the alarm itself sounds. This period of time makes it possible to reach the protected space in a calmer and safer way.

Upon receiving the early warning, the office recommends wearing supportive shoes, wearing glasses and hearing aids and starting to move towards the protected space if the path to it is relatively long. It is also recommended to wear closed shoes with non-slip soles and avoid flip flops, open slippers or walking with socks only.

People who use mobility aids such as a walking stick, walker or wheelchair are asked to ensure that these aids are within reach and ready for immediate use. Vision and hearing aids are also very important, since impairment of vision or hearing may increase the risk of falls.

In the case of going down the stairs, it is recommended to hold onto the railing, descend carefully and avoid carrying objects at the same time. The Ministry of Health also suggests preparing a small bag in advance containing a mobile phone and items required for staying in the protected area.

It is also recommended to prepare the protected space itself in advance and make sure it has a comfortable chair with handles for safe lifting, a small table, regular medications as needed, drinks and some food. For people who have difficulty standing up, the office recommends avoiding sitting on the floor as much as possible.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes that when the alarm sounds, you must get to the protected area quickly, but while maintaining caution and avoiding running or walking on a wet or slippery floor.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health also addresses the public and families and asks them to keep in touch with family members and elderly neighbors and check if they need assistance in reaching the protected area. Even while staying in the protected space, it is recommended to make sure that the elderly neighbor arrived safely and to check if he needs help.