As temperatures begin to drop across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS staff are reminding everyone of a simple but effective way to avoid slips and falls during icy conditions, waddle like a penguin!
The technique, which went viral in previous winters, is back for 2025 as part of NHSGGC’s winter campaign. Walking like a penguin helps keep your centre of gravity over your feet, reducing the risk of falls that can lead to serious injuries.
Laura Halcrow, Falls Prevention Lead at NHSGGC, said: “It might look funny, but waddling really works. A slip-on ice can cause painful injuries and even hospital stays, especially for older people.
“We’re asking everyone to share this advice with friends and family, particularly those who may be less steady on their feet. Take two minutes to find a waddle buddy, have a laugh, and stay safe together.”
Top tips to waddle like a penguin:
- Bend slightly and keep your knees loose
- Point your feet (flippers!) out slightly
- Extend your arms (wings!) at your sides
- Walk flat-footed, taking short steps
- Keep your centre of gravity over your feet
Dr Claire Harrow, Deputy Medical Director for Acute Services, added: “A&E is for the urgent emergencies. If you suffer a fall, most cases don’t need emergency care.
“If you can, treat yourself from the comfort of your own home using trusted sources like the NHS Inform website or the NHS 24 app. If you need healthcare or you’re unsure, call NHS 24 on 111 for advice. You may be directed to a Minor Injuries Unit, which is often the best place for assessment and treatment.”
Winter safety isn’t just about avoiding slips, it’s also about protecting yourself from illness. NHSGGC is urging eligible groups to get their flu vaccines as soon as possible.
People can check if they’re eligible for the flu vaccine or how to book an appointment at: www.nhsinform.scot/flu
Dr Iain Kennedy, NHSGGC Immunisation Coordinator, said: “If you’ve been invited for the flu vaccine, it is for a reason so please be sure to take up the offer. The flu vaccination is your best protection against the virus.
“We have 21 community clinics available, drop-in Mobile Vaccination Units across the city and community pharmacies offering the flu vaccine. There is a list of around 180 pharmacies on the NHSGGC website that are offering this to eligible people so there are plenty to choose from.”
Upcoming dates and locations for the Mobile Vaccination Unit are available below and will be published on www.nhsggc.scot.
- Thursday 20 November – Neilston Leisure Centre, Main Street, Neilston, G78 3NN (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Friday 21 November – Gallagher Retail Park, 4a Gln Ml Wy, Port Glasgow PA14 5DX (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Monday 1 December – Erskine Sports Centre, Kilpatrick Drive, Erskine, Renfrewshire, PA8 7AF (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Tuesday 2 December – The Foundry, 101 Main Street, Barrhead, G78 1SW (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Wednesday 3 December – Chapel Street Car Park, Chapel Street, Lennoxtown, G66 7DE (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Monday 8 December – Gourock Swimming Pool Car Park, Albert Road, PA19 1NQ (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Tuesday 9 December – Knightswood Community Centre, 201 Alderman Road, Glasgow, G13 3DD (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Wednesday 10 December – Ferguslie Sport Centre, 100 Blackstoun Road, Howwood, PA3 1EX (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
- Thursday 11 December – Ladyton Shops, Bonhill, G83 9DZ (10:00 am – 4:00 pm)
Pharmacies providing the vaccines can be found in the list below:
