Safety during cold snaps is everyone’s responsibility, says seniors critic
December 17, 2008
VANCOUVER— The recent severe winter conditions should remind us that it is a collective responsibility to ensure safe conditions for our frail and mobility challenged populations, says NDP seniors health critic Guy Gentner.
“Everyone needs to pitch in to ensure safety for seniors and other people with
Guy Gentnermobility issues during prolonged or harsh weather conditions,” said Gentner.
Gentner is calling for aggressive enforcement of all bylaws that mandate snow removal from sidewalks, bus zones and commercial areas. With winter conditions anticipated to continue, he asks that bylaw enforcement officials pay particular attention to essential services such as grocery and pharmacy outlets.
Gentner noted that falls can be one of the biggest safety issues for B.C. seniors, who are more at risk of falling than younger adults and more likely to suffer a severe injury as a result. Fall injuries account for almost two-thirds of hospitalizations for those over 65 years of age.
“Our seniors deserve the greatest respect and dignity we can afford – we must place greater care in preventive measures,” said Gentner. “We can all do our part by keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice.”
“Everyone needs to pitch in to ensure safety for seniors and other people with
Guy Gentnermobility issues during prolonged or harsh weather conditions,” said Gentner. Gentner is calling for aggressive enforcement of all bylaws that mandate snow removal from sidewalks, bus zones and commercial areas. With winter conditions anticipated to continue, he asks that bylaw enforcement officials pay particular attention to essential services such as grocery and pharmacy outlets.
Gentner noted that falls can be one of the biggest safety issues for B.C. seniors, who are more at risk of falling than younger adults and more likely to suffer a severe injury as a result. Fall injuries account for almost two-thirds of hospitalizations for those over 65 years of age.
“Our seniors deserve the greatest respect and dignity we can afford – we must place greater care in preventive measures,” said Gentner. “We can all do our part by keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice.”
Delta North
Guy Gentner was re-elected as the MLA for Delta North on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature May 17, 2005.
