SOUTHAMPTON — To prevent life-threatening falls during the icy winter months, the Southampton TRIAD is providing sand to senior citizens to spread over slick ice outside their homes.
Southampton TRIAD will be delivering the sand to homes on Monday, Dec. 18. The group is comprised of local seniors and representatives from the town’s senior center, police department, fire department and Board of Health, as well as the Hampshire County’s sheriff’s office and the Northwestern district attorney’s office.
Fire Chief John Workman said the department receives about four to five calls during the winter season for people who have slipped on ice and fallen.
“Oftentimes, for seniors, they break bones when they fall,” Workman said.
The fire department hosts talks with seniors to educate them about safety concerns, including fall prevention, Workman said. The department also offers home visits to assess safety concerns, such as the need for fire and carbon monoxide alarms, as well as the presence of rugs or cords that might trip someone.
To receive a bucket of sand or participate in the TRIAD program, call Southampton Senior Center Director Joan Linnehan at (413) 529-2105.
Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.