According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. In fact, over 14 million, or 1 in 4 older adults report falling every year. We’ve written about preventing falls and the risks of minimizing falls in the past. Today, we turn our focus to reducing tripping hazards on DC’s sidewalks.

Cracked sidewalks, exposed tree roots, and loose or missing bricks are a few examples of hazards that can cause a fall. Because DC doesn’t have an annual sidewalk inspection program, it is especially important that citizens like you report concerns. By taking just a few simple steps, you can save your neighbor - or yourself - from a costly fall.

First, be sure to have the following information for your report:

• Location of the problem
• Type of sidewalk (brick, concrete, etc.)
• Type of hazard (raised element, depression, impediment to a wheelchair/stroller)
• Caused by a tree root?
• Photograph of the problem (preferred)

Then, make a report by dialing 311 or visiting 311’s website and following these simple steps. If you do not already have a 311 account, you can continue as a guest. After clicking on "All Service Requests", select "Sidewalk Repair". Then click on "Request" to complete and submit the form.

Once you’ve made your report, continue to carefully navigate through the uneven pavement in that area. DDOT has up to 270 days to fix the issue after receiving your report. Rest assured your outreach to 311 is a great benefit to your community. Fall hazards may go unidentified until a sidewalk is scheduled for restoration.

As a reminder, all Full Members can request volunteer help with reporting a sidewalk issue by contacting the office at 202-935-6060 or info@nnvdc.org.

Special thanks to our friends at Capitol Hill Village for providing information for this article.