It’s the season for slips and falls, especially as winter storms bring snow and fluctuating temperatures cause melting and refreezing in the coldest months of the year.

Pella Ambulance Director Greg Higginbotham reminds all residents to exercise caution when walking on sidewalks and when clearing snow — two of the most common calls they respond to in January are for those who slide on ice and those who over-exert themselves when shoveling.

Higginbotham says especially with this latest snow storm, he encourages anyone who struggled with the last round to get help from friends, family, or neighbors and to make sure they don’t push themselves too hard, and for anyone of all ages — but especially those with balance issues, to always be cautious when venturing onto ice or snow.