Written by Paige Hessel

There are good days and bad days in Louisville, just like everywhere.  Right now, in January of 2017, we have had some very cold days (in the teens) and days warm enough to open windows and get a bit of fresh air. Depending on your personal preferences regarding weather, you may love the warm days or hate them.  I feel like we should be seeing snow right about now and I do miss the quiet that seems to come hand in hand with a fresh blanket of it.  But I am always mindful of what lies beneath that powdery or crunchy white stuff. Often, there are icy patches on steps, sidewalks, driveways, and roads.

When you know snow is coming, please be sure to put an ice melt product down. If you are not able to do it, ask a loved one or neighbor to help you.  There are lots of options out there, I always urge folks to use a product which will be pet safe.

When going out, always wear a flat shoe with good traction and think about walking like a penguin! Shuffle your feet along surfaces you are unsure of instead of taking regular steps and point your toes outward a little bit, it may look silly, but it just might keep a fall from happening!

Always try and walk with a companion; if you or they fall, assistance is already there.  Be sure to take a cell phone with you to call for help if necessary. It’s a good idea to let someone know if you are going out, such as a friend or neighbor.

Be sure to bundle up, it’s better to have more layers on that you can take off if you get too warm than to not be dressed warmly enough.

Most importantly, when you are out on the snow and possibly ice, take your time. Take mindful steps. Do not let anyone rush you