What should be prioritized to prevent snow or ice dangers on walkways?

Prioritizing regular maintenance and cleaning is essential for preventing snow or ice dangers on walkways. This proactive approach involves consistently monitoring the conditions of walkways during winter weather and taking appropriate action to remove snow and ice promptly. By maintaining clean and safe walkways, the risk of slips and falls significantly decreases, ensuring a safer environment for pedestrians.

Regular maintenance includes not just the initial removal of snow after a snowfall but also the ongoing application of salt, sand, or other de-icing agents that can help manage icy conditions. This level of attentiveness ensures that any new accumulation is dealt with before it poses a risk. It is a foundational aspect of maintaining public safety during winter months.

Other approaches, like encouraging community involvement or promoting winter sports, while beneficial in some ways, do not directly address the critical need for immediate and effective snow and ice management on walkways. Similarly, increasing snow removal equipment can support maintenance efforts but cannot replace the need for regular, hands-on cleaning and management of walkways, which is vital for preventing accidents.