Jan 29, 2014 1 min read

The hope is the coldest weather is now behind us, but winter will be with us for a least another six weeks, regardless of what Punxsutawney Phil demonstrates on Groundhog Day this Sunday. Chances are pretty good more snow will fall, and with that the dangers of injury to pedestrians from sidewalks not cleared of snow and ice.

It is not the responsibility of local governments to keep sidewalks clear; that’s the obligation of property owners. And those who ignore that responsibility are likely to be slapped with a fine.

It was distressing this past week to see people walking on the road surface of Jefferson Avenue in Washington because large sections of uncleared sidewalk were too hazardous to navigate. These are sidewalks used by children walking to and from Washington High School.

Home and business owners should shovel and treat sidewalks early and often, so ice does not accumulate. Failure to do so is not only unlawful but invites suits for negligence.

Keep those sidewalks clear, to protect yourselves and benefit your fellow citizens.