Stay One Step Ahead with MEMIC
Slips, trips, and falls are a leading cause of injury both at work and at home - especially during the winter months. Icy sidewalks, snowy steps, and hidden patches of black ice turn everyday tasks into serious risks. At MEMIC, we see firsthand how quickly a fall can cause life-altering injuries, lost work time, or even long-term disability. That’s why fall prevention is a key focus of our safety efforts every winter, with resources designed to protect workers, families, and communities across the Northeast.
Last year we partnered with longtime journalist Kim Block, who suffered a traumatic brain injury from a winter fall in 2019. Her personal experience became the foundation of our Walk Safe Winter public service announcement, airing across Maine in early 2024.
What we didn’t expect was just how deeply it would resonate. After seeing the PSA, Sharon Giroux Panek of Brunswick recognized the same symptoms in herself following a fall - and took action just in time.
Sharon’s Story: A Life-Saving Wake-Up Call
In December 2024, Sharon Giroux Panek slipped on snow-covered ice outside her home in Brunswick. She stood up, told her husband she was fine, and drove 45 minutes to work. Over the next month, she powered through the holidays—despite worsening fatigue, headaches, and brain fog. She had no idea her fall had caused two brain bleeds.
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Everything changed when Sharon saw MEMIC’s Walk Safe Winter PSA featuring journalist Kim Block, who had experienced a traumatic brain injury after her own fall.
“As I absorbed all that you said had happened to you, it profoundly resonated with me. I found myself contemplating whether this might be a sign from God. In that instance, I resolved to contact my doctor first thing on Monday morning.”
But that next day, Sunday morning, Sharon’s condition suddenly worsened. She lost control of her left arm and leg and asked her husband to take her to the ER.
“I think you need to drive me to the ER right now.”
At the hospital, she learned the truth: her blood pressure was dangerously high, and she had not one, but two brain bleeds. She was rushed to Maine Medical Center, where she underwent emergency brain surgery two days later.
Now home and recovering, Sharon credits the MEMIC PSA—and Kim Block’s bravery—for helping her recognize the warning signs and seek help in time.
“My heart is full of gratitude for you. My mother, husband, son and grandson all thank you from the bottom of their hearts.”
Why We Walk Safe: Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace and home injuries—and most are preventable. Winter conditions make the risk even higher, but hazards exist year-round. That’s why MEMIC created the Walk Safe Winter PSA with Kim Block: to raise awareness, encourage early action, and to help everyone stay on their feet.
Why Prevention Matters
Every year, thousands of people end up in emergency rooms because of falls. Injuries can range from sprains and fractures to serious head trauma. Even a “minor” fall can have lasting consequences.
Top Tips to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls:
- Choose the right footwear: Wear shoes or boots with good traction.
- Take small steps and slow down: Rushing increases your risk.
- Keep walkways clear: Remove clutter, cords, and obstacles.
- Use handrails: Especially on stairs or icy surfaces.
- Stay alert for changing conditions: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting can all lead to falls.
If You Do Fall:
Watch for symptoms like headaches, confusion, balance issues, or weakness in your arms or legs. If you hit your head—even if you feel fine—seek medical attention immediately. It could save your life.
At MEMIC, safety is our mission—at work, at home, and in our communities. Through campaigns like Walk Safe Winter, we share real stories, expert tips, and resources to help prevent injuries before they happen.
Walk Safe This Winter
Don't let a slip turn into a hospital trip.
Download the resources below for more essential winter safety tips.
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Ask Yourself: Is it one of those frigid, icy days?
Before you go out, proceed with caution.
- 37°F or lower - Ice is likely
- It's snowing - Snow can hide black ice
- High dew point or fog - Moisture creates slick surfaces
4 Steps to Stay Upright
- Wear Proper Footwear - Boots with thick, grippy soles
- Walk Like a Penguin - Small, flat-footed steps
- Stay Alert - Watch for hidden ice patches
- Keep Hands Free - Don't put them in your pockets or carry anything