The number of injuries sustained in Indian families throughout the country has registered a sharp increase, says a notification from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).
More than 8000 people were injured at home during the first quarter of the year.
The notification said about 11,845 people were recovering from the injuries they had suffered during the January-March 2010 quarter and the preceding three months.
“These injuries cost the nation about $7 million in medical attention, lost time at work and other opportunity costs,” the notification said.
According to ACC, home, workplace, road and sports fields are among the four most vulnerable areas for the Indian community.
“They account for 90% of injuries, of which more than 60% are sustained at home.”
The ACC report revealed some disturbing statistics.
It said 3945 persons were injured in their homes during the first quarter, costing about $2.10 million to the national economy.
“The number of persons injured at their workplace was 1823 (costing $$1.8 million), followed by 1823 in sports arenas ($1.15 million) and 236 on roads ($1 million). Some simple precautions can help reduce the number of injuries,” it said.
ACC has issued an advisory to help reduce injuries at home. These include installing a smoke alarm that is regularly tested, taping electrical cords to the skirting board, securing rugs with tape, removing clutters from the shower floor and using a non-slip bathmat.
For further tips, visit www.homesafety.co.nz
|
Number of newly injured people |
Number of people still recovering from an injury |
Cost to the country |
|
8087
|
11,845
|
$6,888,773
|
Injuries include medical fees and entitlement claims
Source: ACC January-March 2010
