By Kathryn DeFoe, DO

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, until you slip on that hidden patch of ice on your way to Grandma’s house. Remember these few tips because the best way to ring in the New Year is not falling on your rear.

Clearing snow from your walkway is a pain, but it is important to keep you safe. In St. Paul, property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks in front of their home or business within 24 hours. Shovel snow into your yard. Though it may be tempting, it is unlawful to pile the snow from your driveway into the street or onto your neighbor’s property. If you need to use sand or salt to clear the ice from your walkway, consider using paw-friendly salt, and remember that a small handful goes a long way.

Snowy roads and the stress of getting back to work after the holidays can be a dangerous combo. Remember that it takes longer to commute to work when there is snow outside. Leave early, go slow and give extra space between you and the car in front of you. Accelerate and decelerate carefully. Avoid sudden turns or your car may skid. If you start to skid, steer into the skid to avoid spinning out. In addition to driving carefully, take a closer look at the tires on your car. Worn out tires slip more and get stuck in the snow. Small cars often benefit from snow tires. Although this can be an investment, it is cheaper than having a car accident due to slipping in the snow and ice.

Once you are done driving, knowing where to park is important. If you are parking in St. Paul during a Snow Emergency, remember to look for the red and white Plow Route signs to avoid getting ticketed or towed. When a Snow Emergency is declared in St. Paul:

Parking is prohibited in all of downtown St. Paul streets at night, even if there is no sign.
Starting at 9 p.m. on the day a Snow Emergency is called, parking is not allowed on “Night Plow” routes.
Starting at 8 a.m. the day after a Snow Emergency is called, parking is not allowed on “Day Plow” routes.
Do not park in these areas until they have been plowed to the curb.

Please also remember, cold weather isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous, especially during long stretches of subzero temperatures. Bring blankets and extra clothes in your car in case you get stuck or the car suddenly stops working. When outside, dress in layers as this is your best defense against getting too cold (hypothermia). Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (polyester, nylon), add something warm (fleece or wool), then top it off with a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hat, mittens, scarves and insulated boots are essential in the cold and snow. Check in on your neighbors, people living alone or without housing or anyone else who might be at risk. If you are able, consider donating warm coats, socks, gloves or blankets to local shelters in need. Also keep in mind that if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for your pets. Limit their time outside even if they look like they are loving it. Give them breaks indoors to warm up.

Wishing you a warm, safe, and slip-free New Year.

Dr. DeFoe is a family physician at Allina Health United Family Physicians, 233 Grand Ave, St. Paul, MN 55102, 651-241-5200.