KIMBALL ON ICE

As Kimballites struggle through the winter weather, there is no escaping the snow and ice. The winter weather conditions make getting out of the house difficult.

Patches of ice hide beneath the snowfalls, and then warmer conditions melt the snow, and it re-freezes overnight. For another month or two, ice will continue to be an issue as it builds up on streets, sidewalks, and pathways. 

Fortunately, according to the Emergency Department, ambulance personnel and paramedics from Kimball Health Services, there has been no increase in falls during the last months.

According to KHS numbers, the ER sees between 8-12 fall victims every month, and those numbers go back to July. Kimball Health Services said they had yet to see an increase in fall numbers. Kerry Ferguson of KHS speculated that people might stay home and not walk on the ice.

Arrow Medical Center in Kimball also confirmed that they had not had any related weather fall victims to tend to. Stoney Vance, CEO of the facility, said they had some cancellations due to weather.

The Observer has found a variety of helpful hints to keep you safe as you navigate the icy conditions:

• Look for a path around snow and ice and take your time.

• Walk like a Penguin-slowly, with small steps, and point toes out slightly.

• Walk with your head up and stand up straight.

• Keep hands out of pockets to help keep your balance.

• Don’t text or talk on the phone and walk at the same time.

• Use care getting in or out of your vehicle.

• On slopes, turn sideways and use side steps.

Some businesses in Kimball still have salt for sidewalks in stock, but gravel and kitty litter also work to get a grip on those icy walkways.

In related weather news, Kimball Police Chief Any Bremer asks area drivers to drive safely on the snow- and ice-covered roads. Bremer also wanted to mention that people should keep pets inside during the extreme cold temperatures.