Health Tip: If You Need a Walker

(HealthDay News) -- If you use a walker to help you get around, take note of these safety tips from the Calgary Health Region:

• Always wear good supporting shoes, not slippers.
• Check that the walker''s rubber tips are not worn; replace them when they are.
• When walking, place the walker no more than one step in front of you.
• Don''t step too far into the walker. You could lose your balance.
• Don''t lean on the walker when getting up or sitting down. It could tip over.
• Avoid wet surfaces.
• Remove scatter rugs or throw mats from your path.
• Don''t use the walker on stairs.

-- Felicity Stone

Last Updated: Nov. 18, 2005