Decorative footpaths can cause an ugly fall

THE cold weather has exposed the fact that recently laid cement footpaths, with their decorative circular indentations, are dangerous in icy conditions. Rain or melted frost lodges in the indentations and because the temperature is low, it is very slow to evaporate.

In freezing weather, it expands and coats the pavement with a layer of ice. This is difficult to see because it is transparent. Long after the road surface is free of ice, and it appears to be safe to venture out, the pavements remain dangerous.

By 9.30am on Christmas Day the roads in Cobh were reasonably safe to use, but when our church warden went to open the gates of Christchurch, Rushbrooke, he fell four times on the slippery pavement. I arrived soon afterwards, went to his assistance and fell twice.

On both occasions I was standing still and my legs shot from under me. The pavement is sloping at that point – a common feature in Cobh.

Since these indentations do not increase the grip when the surface is dry I suggest they be filled as a matter of urgency.

Consideration might also be given to having a slightly rougher finish.

Allen Crosbie

Merville

Cobh

Co Cork