New Trend in Nursing Homes: The Rise of Younger Residents

There’s an interesting new trend in nursing home care.  The number of younger residents in nursing homes has increased in the last few years.  The number of nursing home residents under the age of 65 has jumped 22%.  This means about one in every seven residents is under 65 years of age, some even in their twenties and thirties.  

What’s causing this growing phenomenon in medical care?  The Washington Post reported that it’s due to 1) medical advances that help individuals survive traumatic illnesses and injuries, and 2) the closing of mental health facilities.  Many of these younger residents have suffered severe injuries. Others have neuromuscular diseases such as multiple sclerosis, or have suffered a stroke. 

This trend has proven a challenge for caregivers and residents, because while the younger residents may have some of the same physical demands as older residents, their social and psychological needs are much different.  

While many facilities try to separate the older from the younger generations, this isn’t always possible because of the still small number of younger residents.  This can cause tensions between the generations.  The older residents complain about loud music and young visitors.  On the other hand, the younger residents don’t want to room with someone with dementia, they don’t want to be forced to eat food specifically with the elderly in mind, and hate that the only social activity is bingo.  

Living in these facilities can also cause the younger residents to become depressed not only because of their disabilities or illnesses, but because they’re constantly surrounded by the elderly and dying, and quite simply, they’re lonely.

Some homes have already accommodated these younger guests by giving them their own wing, offering poker instead of bingo, pizza and pop instead of meatloaf and tea.  They even take them out on outings. If this trend continues, the nursing home industry will have to adapt in order to not only give the elderly comfortable quality care, but also the young who suffer from debilitating injuries and illnesses.

Sources: 

Nursing Home Abuse Blog

 

Time Healthland

McKnight's Long Term Health Care News

MBC attorney speaks at Nation Business Institute seminar

MBC attorney, John R. Christensten, participated as a speaker at NBI's, Plaintiff's Personal Injury From Start to Finish, seminar.  He spoke on the topic, Statutes Which Affect Liability Evaluation, which covered the statute of limitations, auto accident statutes, and recreational and sovereign immunity.

He also participated in the presentation, Understanding the Law of Damages, in which he focused on such issues as: non-economic damages, pain, suffering, and inconvenience, disability, disfigurement, and loss of of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death claims and statutes, among others.

At the conclusion, John received an rating of 'excellent' from the seminar attendees.

Here's what they had to say:

"Knowledgeable speaker"

"Very solid; quite excellent; quality presentation"

"I have seen John speak before and he is a great presenter."

"I am a 25 year practitioner and I learned."

"Speaker's extensive experience allowed informative case examples for principles of law being discussed."

"Stated information clearly and easy to understand.  Made great connections between rules and actual cases."

Congratulations to John on a job well done.  Visit our Facebook fan page to find out about upcoming speaking engagements  by the attorneys at MBC.

Give Emergency Vehicles Some Room

Did you know that you could be fined for not giving an emergency vehicle enough space when they’re stopped on the side of the road?  Well, you can.  In 2007, the Move Over Law was passed in the state of Washington in order to protect police, emergency technicians, tow operators, and Department of Transportation workers being killed or struck during routine traffic stops, accident response, impounding or towing of vehicles, and highway construction.  

Since 2007, the number of collisions involving emergency vehicles actually increased instead of decreasing.  The aftermath made it necessary to make the law stricter, so Move Over is getting a little help from the new Emergency Zone Law, which went into action on January 1, 2011.  

The new law will level hefty penalties on drivers who speed past emergency vehicles stopped on state highways, or fail to give first responders more room in the Emergency Zone.  The Emergency Zone is defined as the adjacent lanes of roadway 200 feet (or 10 car lengths) before and after a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights, a tow truck using red lights, an emergency assistance vehicle using warning lights, or any police vehicle using emergency lights.  

Drivers traveling on a roadway with at least two lanes in their direction of travel must move over a lane from the shoulder when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with its lights activated. They're also required to slow down and proceed with caution.

On roadways with only one lane in their direction of travel, motorists must pass to the left of an emergency vehicle if they're able to safely do so, while yielding the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

The penalties for not following the Move Over and Emergency Zone Laws are as follows:

• Failure to move over or slow down in an Emergency Zone come with a $248 fine, which has doubled with the new law. 

• Fines double for exceeding the posted speed limit in Emergency Zones.

• If a motorist drives in a manner as to endanger any emergency worker, he or she could be charged with Reckless Endangerment.

• If convicted of Reckless Endangerment, a driver’s license could be suspended for up to 90 days.

Here at MBC, we had a case in which a U.S. Marshall’s vehicle was struck when he had pulled to the shoulder in order to help a collision victim.  He was left with multiple injuries including a concussion and lower back injury.  He still suffers from limitations and pain as a result of the collision.

So take care when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle.  These people are just doing their jobs, helping the stranded, assisting with collisions, saving lives.  They may be saving yours one day.

Sources:

Washington State Patrol

Seattle Times

Charity Week; Day One, Fighting Disease

During the season of giving, we know many of you would like to donate your money, much needed items, or volunteer your time to charity.  But where do you start?  

This week, with Christmas right around the corner, we thought we would highlight some  charitable organizations worthy of your contributions.  Today we're starting with the war against diseases.  These are all top rated charities according to the American Institute of Philanthropy.  All those listed also meets all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability set forth by the Better Business Bureau.

Mostly we're focusing on cancer, but there are so many fighting the good fight, they are also worth mentioning.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: 

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. Their mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Click here to find out how you can help their cause.

Cure Search for Children's Cancer:

Their oncology group is a network of physicians, nurses, and scientists whose collaborative efforts have turned childhood cancer from virtually incurable, to one with a 78% cure rate.  They are dedicated to raising  funds for childhood cancer research, and are committed to conquering childhood cancer through scientific discovery and compassionate care.  Click here to find out how to donate, advocate, and support their cause.

Cancer Research Institute:

CRI is dedicated exclusively to the support and coordination of laboratory and clinical efforts that will lead to the immunological treatment, control, and prevention cancer.  Click here to find out the many ways to donate to this organization.

 Breast Cancer Research Foundation:

Their mission is to  is to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer by providing  funding for innovative  research, and increasing public awareness about good breast health. Currently, over 90 cents of every dollar donated goes to breast cancer research and awareness programs. Click here to donate.

Here are some organizations helping fight or cure other diseases or illnesses:

The Foundation for AIDS Research:

The foundation is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research. amfAR plays a catalytic role in accelerating the pace of HIV/AIDS research and achieving real breakthroughs. amfAR-funded research has increased our understanding of HIV and has helped lay the groundwork for major advances in its study and treatment. Here's how to donate. 

American Lung Association:

They work to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through Education, Advocacy and Research.  You can find how to get involved and donate on their website.

Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation:

Diabetes Action is committed to the prevention and treatment of diabetes and to the funding of innovative, promising research aimed at finding a cure for diabetes and diabetes related complications. Donate here.

Parkinson's Disease Foundation:

PDF is a leading national presence in Parkinson’s disease research, education and public advocacy. They fund promising scientific research to find the causes of and a cure for Parkinson's while supporting people with Parkinson’s, their families and caregivers through educational programs and support services. Find out how you can give to PDF here.

Muscular Dystrophy Association:

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. Here's how you can help.

Just a few ideas of ways you can donate this Christmas season.  More worthy charities tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by,

Your friends at MBC

Tis the Season...

Although it’s the-season-to-be-jolly, it’s definitely not the season-to-stay-healthy for many.  The holidays can be a stressful, depressing time for some, not to mention the inevitable weight gain most of us pack on this time of year.  

 

Depression

For some, the holidays are not a joyous time; for some they’re difficult and painful to get through.  This could be because of the loss of a loved one, divorce, or anxiety of the upcoming year.  It can also be a time of introspection, loneliness, and reflection which can bring on feelings of despair. 

 Here are some tips for fighting holiday depression:

• Are your traditions working for you?  If not, get rid of them and create new ones. 
• Go outside, get some fresh air and exercise. 
• If you suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) take vitamin D supplements, or use phototherapy to relieve depressive symptoms.
• Don’t compare the current holiday to holidays past, just enjoy it and make new memories to cherish.
• Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some time or donating needed items to charitable organizations in your area.
• Remember, alcohol is a depressant and may add to your holiday melancholy.
• Spend time with supportive and caring people.  Try to make new friends or reach out to ones you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Loss 

If your depression is caused by the loss of a loved one, have a family discussion about what each member wants to do for the holidays and how much they think they can handle.   

•  If you live alone, invite a friend for dinner, go to a movie, or start a new book.  
•  Alleviate yourself of some holiday pressures.  Limit gift buying and giving, and decorate as much as you are ready for. Let someone else host and cook. Be sure to take care of your own needs and get adequate rest and exercise.
• If you’re up to it, acknowledge the absence of your loved one, toast in their honor, or visit the cemetery or memorial site.  Cry, smile, and laugh, if you need to and enjoy creating new memories and new traditions with family and friends. 

Don't Forget the Elderly

Holidays can be very lonely and stressful for the elderly. Remember to include them in your family gatherings.  The passing on of traditions, becoming the guest instead of the host, deaths of spouses or siblings are all things you might not think about, but can add to their feelings of loss and sadness.   If they’re able, try to involve them in the holiday preparation, let them help decorate or cook.  Make them feel important.

Destressing 

• Try to set realistic goals and pace yourself. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Don’t spread yourself too thin, you don’t have to attend every party to which you’ve been invited.

• If you're in charge of preparing the holiday meals, start cooking early so you can enjoy the holidays. Create sauces, jams, cookies, and other items that will keep until the guests arrive in advance.
• Simplify. Bake only one type of cookie instead of a dozen.   
• If you get tired, take a break.  The wrapping, baking, and shopping will be there when you’re rejuvenated.
• Don’t go into the red.  Give gifts of your time or services, or pull names for gift exchanges. Enjoy free activities, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations; window shop, build a snow man, go caroling.
• Return Gifts Later.  The day after Christmas is not the time to return unwanted gifts. Wait until after the New Year when shopping crowds have diminished.

Holiday Weight Gain

The holiday season brings festive family get-togethers, office parties and other traditional activities. What common thread do these activities have? Food, food and more food (with a side of alcohol). The average American gains 5 to 7 pounds over the holidays. 

• When we spend an entire day shopping, we usually end up making poor meal choices by eating fast food, which is high in fat and calories and low in nutritional content. Keep it as healthy as you can.  Avoid "super-sizing", limit fried foods, and avoiding high fat condiments such as dressings, mayonnaise, sauces and cheese. Instead, slather that burger with mustard, ketchup or fat-free dressing or order a salad. 
•  Don't skip meals or eat very little most of the day to save up so that you can eat more at a party or dinner. Eat at your regular times, with perhaps a little lower fat or smaller portions in general. If your meal will be later than usual, have a snack to curb your appetite so that you are not too hungry when you get there.
•  Looking for healthy holiday entertaining ideas? Instead of a traditional holiday cookie exchange, invite friends over for a light meal that includes vegetable soups, fresh breads, fruits and lettuce salads. Plan the event so that food is not the main focus.  Plan activities such as games and a gift exchange.   
•   If you’re traveling during the holiday and staying where there is no gym, bring an exercise band or DVD so you can get your physical activity in. 
•  Modify your recipes to make them lighter.  The sugar and fat content in most holiday recipes can be altered without a noticeable difference in taste. Use low-calorie substitutes for butter, shortening, and sugar, and cook with skim milk.   Strong-flavored cheeses, such as gorgonzola or aged parmesan, add more "oomph" per ounce and have less fat than easy melters such as cheddar.  
• Don't forget the roasted vegetables -- squash, sweet potatoes, parsnips or tomatoes. These vegetables require little if any fat to prevent sticking, and roasting them with your turkey, ham, or prime rib is an ideal cooking method.
•  Watch out for hidden calories in your holiday beverages.  Alcohol is high in calories and some mixed drinks contain up to 450 calories per glass. Soda, fruit punch, and eggnog can be loaded with sugar and calories.  By drinking water and diet sodas you stay calorie free. 
•  Moderation is key; whether we’re talking red meat, alcohol, or cookies, try to balance intake of these items with fruits and vegetables, lean meats and other healthy choices. 
•  Make the season one of sharing. If you are given sweets or other special foods, then share them with family and friends or take them to work.

Eat Out Fear-Free

1. Cocktails: Order your food first. It’s the first thing you’re offered when you walk into a restaurant. But after just one drink, you’re more likely to order the 2,400-calorie Bloomin’ Onion rather than a green salad to start. Until you’re placed your food order, stick with water. 
2. Ordering: Choose before you go. Check out the menu online or call and ask the restaurant to email or fax it to you. Decide what to order in advance and stick with it.
3. Waiting: Don’t go in on an empty stomach. Have a small low-calorie snack before you eat out so you’re not tempted to munch while you wait for a table or your food. Turn down bread or ask that it be placed out of reach.  
4. Portions: Less is more. Most restaurants give you far more food than you need or can eat. Beat the system by ordering two appetizers instead of an entrée, sharing a meal with a friend, or asking for a take-out container when you order so you can put half your meal aside before you eat. 
5. Cooking styles: Steer clear of fats. Beware of anything cooked with cream, such as sauces or soups, also, butter, oil, gravy, au gratin, breaded, Alfredo, blackened, battered, or fried. Stick with poached, baked, broiled or steamed.  Or ask if your meal can be cooked “light” and ask for sauces and salad dressings (plain oil and vinegar is best) on the side.

Party Time 

• Once again, keep alcohol intake down. Drinking sparkling water instead of alcohol will keep your brain from forgetting to watch what you eat. Not to mention that alcohol itself contains 7 calories per gram. That’s twice as much as sugar!
• As with eating out, enjoy a pre-party snack. Arriving hungry to a party makes us more likely to overeat. Plan and prepare to combat this by eating before a party.
• Move away from the buffet. Find a room that’s not full of food. You’ll be less tempted to eat if you can’t see what you’re missing.
• Bring a party platter of sliced veggies and yogurt dip, or another healthy appetizer.  Then you’ll know there will be at least one healthful choice to nibble on. 
• Avoid recreational eating by setting a one plate rule. At parties and holiday dinners we tend to eat beyond our body’s physical hunger simply because food is there and eating is a social activity.  Also, try to eat slowly and possibly on a smaller plate.
• If you overindulge at a holiday gathering, don't just decide that you have blown it and that you won't try to keep a healthy diet until after the New Year. An occasional lapse does not cause excessive weight gain but several weeks of over-eating may.  Instead of giving up, learn from your mistakes and plan better for the next time.

The Gift of Health

Looking for fitness and exercise gift ideas, here you go:

• Yoga mat 
• Exercise Ball 
• Weights
• Personal Training Session 
• Workout Video 
• Fitness Video Game 
• Jump Rope 
• Fitness Fashion

1. Sneakers
2. running pants
3. bicycle shorts
4. sweats
5. swim goggles
6. towel
7. gym bag
8. outdoor gear for outdoor sports, such as, wool socks, gloves, long underwear, hat

• MP3Player, of if that is out of your budget, a new set headphones and a gift certificate for downloadable workout tunes.
• Gym Membership 
• A gift certificate for indoor sports such as bowling or mini golf.  

Have a healthy and happy holiday from MBC

Sources:
Bangor Daily News
Associated Content
Kaiser Permanante
Nurse Tips
Wellness Corporate Solutions
California Progress Report

Christmas can be hazardous to your health.

Okay, that may be a little over dramatic, but in truth, there are certain dangers that come hand in hand with the-season-to-be-jolly.

Trees:

Christmas trees account for 250 fires annually, resulting in 14 deaths, 26 injuries and more than $13.8 million in property damage.  These fires are usually started by shorts in electrical lights or open flames from candles, lighters or matches.

The video below, from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is an eye opening example of how fast a room can be engulfed in flames during a Christmas tree fire.

The best way to keep your tree from catching fire?  Buy it fresh and keep it wet.  A fresh tree has green needles which are difficult to pull from the branches and don’t break when bent.  When tapped on the ground, a fresh tree shouldn’t lose many needles.

Your tree stand should hold at least a gallon of water.  The general rule is one quart of water per inch of the stem diameter.  An average six foot tree with a four inch diameter truck can consume as much as one gallon of water a day.  When watered properly, a fresh cut tree will keep some natural fire retardant for about twenty-one days.

Remember to keep your tree, as well as other Christmas decorations, away from heaters, lights, fireplaces, radiators, stoves, candles, and ash trays.  A recommended safe distance is three feet.

Poisoning and other hazards:

 Do you ever wonder if the tree you’re bringing into your house is toxic?  Or if a snow globe breaks, can the water inside harm your child?  Scott and White Health Care has kindly put together this list  to either ease our minds, or make us more cautious of what we’re bringing into our homes during the holidays.

Pine Tree (all species)
Christmas trees are non-toxic and usually harmless in regard to toxic exposure concerns. They can scratch the throat if ingested.

Christmas Tree Preservative
Usually contain sugar 90-95%, some form of citric acid, alum and maybe some other trace elements. Drinking the water that contains the preservative is considered usually non-toxic unless ingested in large quantities.

Christmas Tree Ornaments
Most ornaments are made of plastic, glass, Styrofoam, wood and metal. These are considered non-toxic but may present a physical hazard if broken. Other ornaments that are not toxic but can cause mechanical injury are angel hair, glitter, icicles and tinsel. These small things can be inhaled, ingested, placed in the eye or on the skin and can cause irritation.

Christmas Globes
These are also known as snow globes. Some contain little pieces of plastic or glitter but are not considered toxic. The water in these globes is not toxic but may be contaminated with bacteria. If one of these gets broken it is advisable to throw it away.

Bubbling Christmas Lights
These fluid-filled bubbling lights contain at least 50% methylene chloride. Methylene chloride is a respiratory tract and mucous membrane irritant and can cause headaches. Dermal contact may cause irritation and burns. If ingested, methylene chloride can cause CNS depression (sleepiness) and respiratory failure (breathing problems).

Mistletoe
Mistletoe is in the Phoradendron species. Ingestion of any part of the plants usually leads to gastroenteritis, but can also lead to hallucinations, hypotension or hypertension and seizures. The gastroenteritis can last up to eight hours. Fewer than two berries are probably not enough to cause toxicity but ingestion of an unknown amount may require evaluation by a physician.

Poinsettias & Holly
Neither plant is considered toxic. They can, in cases where someone has eaten a large quantity, be considered mildly toxic in that they can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea and therefore are a possible risk for dehydration. Holly’s are from the Ilex genus and all plants in that genus causes nausea and vomiting if eaten in large enough amounts.

Flocking
Once placed on the tree it is inert plastic. If ingested it is considered a foreign body ingestion.

Tinsel & Wrapping paper
On a rare occasion tinsel or wrapping paper may contain lead in some of the inks that are used. A small amount ingested should not be a problem but if unsure, then a lead level might be considered appropriate. Do not burn tinsel or wrapping paper.

Fireplace Logs
Metallic salts produce fireplace and log colors, which can be toxic if ingested, even in small amounts in some cases. Make sure the flu is open to avoid combustion vapors and carbon monoxide in the home.

Alcohol
Leaving alcohol around for little children to drink by accident can be a fatal mistake. Ethanol in children can cause hypoglycemia (and subsequent convulsions) and if not recognized can be fatal.

Food
Food poisoning is always a concern, especially during the holidays when foods get left out for office workers to graze on during the day. Safe food handling practices should be observed.  Visit the health department for information about food safety.

Keep in mind many decorations, ornaments, and toys pose a choking hazard to small children.  Use care when buying Christmas presents or bringing small objects into your home and call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(C.P.S.C.) at 800-638-CPSC for information on toy safety.

Keeping pets safe during the holidays:

• Holly, mistletoe, and Poinsettias are toxic to  animals and cause cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, and even more serious symptoms like temporary blindness and seizures.
• Our pets love to chew on things, err on the side of caution when buy and placing, lights, ornaments, and decorations.
• Tinsel and ribbon are especially tempting to cats and kittens, but can pose a choking hazard, and can severely damage the intestines.  Steer clear of these if you have an indoor cat.
• Chocolate: Pets should never be given chocolate as it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart arrhythmia, and death even when it is eaten small amounts. Be sure to keep chocolate off of tables where pets may have access.
• Ham:  This meat is very high in fat and will cause severe stomach problems for pets if eaten in even small amounts.

Keep hazards out of your holidays by using your head, reading labels, and erring on the side of caution.  Have a safe and sane holiday from your friends at MBC.

Sources:

Argyle Veterinary Hospital

Seasons

by John L. Messina

We in Western Washington do not have severe seasonal differences.  We do, however, notice distinct changes during every turn of the calendar.  We have now passed from the warmth of Summer to the brisk chill of Autumn and are bracing for the onset of “the rains” and the long, dreary Winter.  We will then greet the new year and look forward to new life in the Spring with the cycle of existence repeating itself. 

Each season has its good qualities.  Autumn has football, the World Series, a new school year, Fall colors, Thanksgiving, and the anticipation of the major holidays.  For us at MBC it is the beginning of our trial season.  We are presently in full swing preparing many interesting trials scheduled in the next several months.

These cases involve motor vehicle collisions, a drowning and near drowning, an electrocution, flaws in the design or maintenance of highways, negligent supervision of people on “parole,” dangerous products and drugs, medical negligence, construction site injuries, and others.

In a way handling cases replicates the cycle of the seasons.  A life-changing loss is like the cold and dark of Winter.  Then there is the season of hope, Spring:  People come to us for help and hope and we try to assist them into seeing that the law can provide a better life.  When their cases are completed and they have received help, they often feel like they are basking in the sun of Summer.  Then like the Autumn, they are reminded that ”summer” is over and they must live with their disabilities and that no amount of money will bring them back to the persons they were before that Winter day.”

Ski Safety

By James W. McCormick

It’s my favorite time of the year again – ski season!  With the huge early storm upon us and La Niña in full effect, the mountains are getting covered with huge amounts of beautiful, fluffy, white snow.  If you’re like me, you are probably already watching the web cams and weather reports, and getting your gear together so you’re ready for opening day.  With opening day almost here, it’s a good time to think about some safety reminders before you hit the snow. 

At MBC we have represented people who have been hurt severely in skiing and snowboarding incidents.  These injuries usually come about because someone has chosen not to follow the safety rules of the ski area – typically known as the skier responsibility code.  Usually, ski areas have these posted at the hill, on the lift towers and even on the back of some lift tickets.  In Washington, ski safety is so important that the skier responsibility code has actually been codified into law.  You can find it at RCW 79A.45.030.  Here’s an overview of the skier responsibility code:

1.       Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.

2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid
them.

3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.

4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.

5. Always use devices to prevent runaway equipment.

6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.            

Its important that everyone on the hill knows and follows this code.  If you have young children on the mountain, work on teaching it to them.  You can make a game out of it for them and start them off learning to ski safely on the mountain.

In addition to learning the skier responsibility code, there are other things you can do to stay safe on the slopes.  Take your skis and boots into a reputable shop and have your bindings checked and adjusted for your height, weight, and skier ability before the season.  This will make sure they are working properly and will release if needed when you fall.  Wear a helmet.  I’ve talked about this in prior blogs, but I can’t stress it enough.  Put a helmet on kids and set a good example by wearing one yourself.  Your head is no match for trees, rocks and lift towers.  Most ski shops and ski areas rent helmets these days.  If you don’t want to buy one, call the rental shop before you go. 

Around the lodge, watch out for falling snow.  People are injured every year by snow falling off of the roofs of buildings. 

For the more adventurous skiers out there, keep early season conditions in mind.  Remember that rocks, stumps, logs, ditches, creeks, etc. are all just under a thin layer of snow.  There can be serious hazards under what looks like a pristine layer of powder.  Last year at Heavenly in Lake Tahoe I hit a huge rock in waist deep snow while skiing in the back-country there.  I ended up with a severely sprained ankle that took months to heal.  So, take your time, more snow is on the way and the coverage will get better later in the season.  When we do get a big storm and you plan to head off the beaten path, go with a partner.  Wear an avalanche locator beacon/transceiver and carry an avalanche probe, shovel, and sufficiently warm gear.  Stay away from tree wells that can entrap skiers.  Don’t cut lines and ski into closed or out of bound areas.  Finally, be aware of the snow conditions, weather forecast and degree of avalanche danger – these can all change fast.  If in doubt, don’t go.

Finally, to get to the mountain and back, we usually have a decent drive here in Washington.  Take your time and be safe on the roads.  Putting yourself, your passengers and others in danger by passing a line of cars because you are excited to get to the mountain is not a good.  Those extra three minutes in the parking lot are not worth the risk.  Make sure you have good tires on your car.  Studded snow tires are excellent.  However, neither snow tires nor four wheel drive are substitutes for slowing down and driving a safe speed for the conditions. 

If you or someone you know is hurt in a skiing or snowboarding incident on the mountain or in a collision on the way up or back, contact MBC to see if there is anything that can be done. 

Until the lifts start turning, do your snow dances.  When the mountains open, have fun and be safe out there this season!   

PS:  Stay tuned later in the season for an update on terrain park safety!