Safe Steps workshops – promoting health, safety and independence for seniors – will be held throughout King County this month, including programs in Auburn on Tuesday, Sept. 23, and Pacific on Thursday, Sept. 25.

The Auburn Safe Steps workshop will be held from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center, 808 9th St. SE. The Pacific workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Rainier Vista Senior Apartments, 134 3rd Ave. SE. The events are free and open to all members of the public.

Seniors will have the opportunity to hear from Auburn Regional Medical Center pharmacist Tyrone Lin, St. Francis Hospital pharmacist Mark Stever and St. Francis physical therapist Bob Maketel. They will discuss medication interactions and exercise as they relate to preventing fall-related injuries.

ARMC physical therapy staff members will conduct brief assessments for those interested in testing their strength, balance and flexibility.

In addition, representatives from Community Services for the Blind and Partially Sighted, Auburn Lions Club, Lifeline Northwest and Valley Regional Fire Authority will be present to answer questions and provide information regarding improving vision and overall home safety to prevent falls and fires.

Attendees will receive free night lights, tread tape, informational handouts and snacks. A free prize drawing also will take place toward the end of the workshop.

The workshops are part of a statewide campaign for fall injury prevention awareness. Gov. Chris Gregoire has proclaimed Sept. 18 Fall Prevention Awareness Day.

Sponsoring agencies for the workshops include Auburn Regional Medical Center, St. Francis Hospital, Valley Regional Fire Authority, Lifeline, King County Fire Marshal’s Office and King County Emergency Medical Services.