The first fall can be a warning sign.
Perhaps a new glasses prescription is long overdue. Or a throw rug needs to be moved so it doesn’t catch toes.
Falls are one of the top reasons for 911 calls in Snohomish County, particularly for older adults. To prevent these accidents, Snohomish County Fire District 1 is enlisting help from veterans.
Shaughn Maxwell, the district’s deputy chief of emergency medical services, spearheaded the community paramedic program three years ago. The program involves working with seniors to prevent falls and other safety problems, so they can be happy, mobile and independent.