Mugs for Rugs returns to help eliminate rug-related falls

Mugs for Rugs returns to help eliminate rug-related falls

Emplify Health by Gundersen, in collaboration with the La Crosseand OnalaskaFire Departments, is teaming up again for a community initiative to address the hazards posed by throw rugs, particularly for seniors. Throughout the month of March, residents are encouraged to turn in their throw rugs (4x6 feet or smaller) at participating local coffee shops in exchange for a free coffee mug filled with the house brew.

The event is called Mugs for Rugs and is designed to reduce serious injuries due to falls. Injuries can include head trauma and fractures, which can severely impact quality of life. Megan Anderson, trauma injury preventionist, says, "We did Mugs for Rugs last year in March and it was a resounding success, so after confirming with our partners with the La Crosse and Onalaska Fire Departments, we were excited to bring this back again."

According to Anderson, the goal is to simply reduce the number of injuries that end up in emergency rooms.

"Over 80 percent of local traumatic fall injuries for those 65+ happen in and around the home," she says. "Throw rugs pose a serious trip hazard."

Residents can drop off their rugs at the following locations:

• Scooters Coffee, 715 2^nd Ave SW, Onalaska
• Groovy Sips, 317 Sand Lake Rd, Onalaska
• Cozy Coffee, 515 Amy Dr. Suite #1, Holmen
• The Downtown Grounds (Formerly Cabin Coffee), 401 Jay St. Suite 100, La Crosse
• JavaVino, 2311 State Rd., La Crosse
• Dunkin, 1422 Losey Blvd S, La Crosse
• Grounded (Patio Café), 308 Main St., La Crosse

All collected rugs will be donated to local animal shelters and rescues. For those interested in further falls prevention strategies, Emplify Health by Gundersen will host the next Stepping on Falls Prevention program on April 6.