People are being urged to "waddle like a penguin" by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) to prevent falls during icy weather.

The health board is asking people to adopt the technique to avoid injuries as temperatures drop.

Laura Halcrow, falls prevention lead at NHSGGC, said: "The comedy-value of the walk doesn’t go unnoticed, but the impact on your body from a harsh slip on the ice can be avoided by doing so.

"The more people that know how to stay safe on the ice, the better.

The NHSGGC has shared top tips on how to waddle like a penguin (Image: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde) "That’s why we’re asking people to share this advice with friends and family, particularly those in the older community who may be less steady on their feet.

"Take two minutes to find a waddle buddy, have a laugh together, and get that strut on."

The NHSGGC has shared top tips on how to waddle like a penguin, which include bending slightly and keeping knees loose, pointing feet out slightly, extending arms at the sides, walking flat-footed, taking short steps, and keeping the centre of gravity over the feet.

Claire Harrow, deputy medical director for acute services, also reminded people that in many cases involving slips and trips, going to A&E may not be appropriate.

(Image: NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde) She said: "A&E is there to help the sickest people and treat the most urgent emergencies, and we would always advise anyone who thinks their condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening to call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

"However, most falls and trips do not require treatment at A&E – and in fact, you might be asked to seek help elsewhere if you arrive at A&E inappropriately.

"If assessment is required, our Minor Injuries Units are often best placed to carry that out, so we would urge anyone who has suffered a fall to call NHS24 on 111.

"They will be able to give you the advice you need, including directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit if required."

NHSGGC is also asking people to share advice about winter vaccinations, flu, and Covid-19 with their loved ones.

Dr Iain Kennedy, NHSGGC immunisation coordinator and consultant for NHSGGC public health, said: "Flu and Covid-19 are serious, and getting vaccinated is the best protection from being seriously impacted by the viruses.

"The Covid-19 vaccine can reduce your chances of hospitalisation, with recent statistics showing that it is reduced by two-thirds for over 65s, while the flu vaccine helps prevent serious illness and transmission.

"It is worthwhile to check in with eligible friends and family to ensure that they have organised their appointment and offer support if needed."

To make vaccinations more accessible, NHSGGC has a winter vaccination drop-in bus at various locations from 9am to 4pm.

No appointments at the bus are necessary.

The next available winter vaccine drop-in bus dates are as follows:

  • November 20 (Wednesday) at Tesco, Annick Street, Shettleston, Glasgow.
  • November 21 (Thursday) at Ferguslie Sport Centre, 100 Blackstoun Road, Howwood.
  • November 22 (Friday) at Tesco, Springburn, Cobden Road, Rollox Business & Retail Park, Glasgow.
  • December 2 (Monday) at Lidl, 300 Victoria Road, Glasgow
  • December 3 (Tuesday) at Port Glasgow Tesco, Brown Street, Port Glasgow.