MEMIC Group Partners with Former News Anchor Kim Block to Launch Life-Saving Winter Safety Campaign

MEMIC Group Partners with Former News Anchor Kim Block to Launch Life-Saving Winter Safety Campaign
(Portland, ME) - The MEMIC Group, Maine's leading workers' compensation specialist, has partnered with former WGME news anchor Kim Block to launch a comprehensive winter safety campaign aimed at preventing dangerous slips and falls on ice.

In 2021, the National Safety Council recorded over 42,000 deaths from falls, with older adults particularly vulnerable. Winter weather significantly increases the risk of slip, trip, and fall injuries, already a leading cause of injuries both at home and in the workplace. Recent National Council for Compensation Insurance (NCCI) data shows extreme cold conditions drive a 10% increase in workplace injuries and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that icy and snowy conditions contribute to nearly 70% of all workplace slip-and-fall incidents during the colder months.
MEMIC is urging employers and individuals to take proactive measures to prevent winter weather-related injuries.

The campaign holds particular significance as it features Kim Block, whose 39-year broadcasting career ended following a traumatic brain injury from a winter fall in January 2019. "In one single swoop, my feet came out from underneath me, and I landed hard. It was the back of my head that broke my fall," Block recalls. Despite more than a year of intensive therapy, her recovery continues to present challenges, leading to her departure from WGME.

"I know the power of sharing stories and experiences," says Block. "Though a traumatic brain injury nearly six years ago required me to step away from my role as an anchor reporter, it has not stopped me from trying to inform and help others. When MEMIC asked me to share my story to help others avoid life-changing falls on the ice, I was grateful for the opportunity."

• Television and digital advertisements featuring Kim Block running from mid-November through late winter
• A winter safety webinar co-hosted by WGME and MEMIC safety experts
• A dedicated Walk Safe winter safety webpage featuring Block's story and safety resources
• Weather alerts warning of potentially hazardous conditions

"By implementing effective slip, trip, and fall prevention strategies, especially when weather conditions contribute to potentially hazardous conditions, businesses can safeguard their workforce and customers during the winter months," says Rod Stanley, MEMIC Regional Director of Loss Control and Safety.

Susan Walther, General Manager of CBS 13 and FOX23, adds, "Our station has a deep connection with this campaign because we've seen firsthand how devastating a slip-and-fall on the ice can be. When our own veteran anchor Kim Block had to retire after suffering a traumatic brain injury from slipping on the ice, it really hit home. That's why we're honored to work with MEMIC on this initiative to raise awareness and help prevent these kinds of accidents."

MEMIC emphasizes that with more awareness and safer techniques, these injuries are almost always preventable.

• Regularly sand and salt all sidewalks, pathways, stairs, and parking lots
• Take preventative action before winter storms arrive
• Stay alert to changing weather conditions that can create unexpected hazards

Learn how to prevent falls on the ice and snow at memic.com/walksafe.

"Please learn from my story. Stay focused in icy conditions. One fall can change your life forever." - Kim Block.