health

Many strains and sprains can be avoided. Precautions at home include
the following:

• Clearing ice away from porches, steps, and sidewalks
• Wearing shoes and boots with nonskid soles
• Holding hand rails on stairways
• Using rubber mats in tubs and shower stalls
• Choosing rugs with nonskid backing
• Making sure night-time entrances have adequate lighting
• Keeping a night light or wall light on between the bedroom and
  the bathroom
• Keeping tools, toys, and other items away from places where people
  can trip over them
• Ensuring that ladders are steady when they are used

Rules for athletes include starting slowly, stretching frequently, and
always remembering to warm up and cool down before and after strenuous
exercise