Roads weren't the only places that were slick and icey

Monday, February 24th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The winter storm has made everything slick, not just roads. News on 6 reporter Patrina Adger says as soon as the snow falls, one of the first concerns is with the highways, getting all the sand down on the roads to make it easier for cars to get around.

But side streets and parking lots can be just as dangerous especially if you have to walk on them. Imagine walking with a cane in one hand, a child in the other, and slippery ice all around, it makes for a scary combination. Just walking from the parking lot to the supermarket alone for many is stressful.

Tulsa resident Jamie Dobson: "I'm trying to take little, bitty steps, take my time and not be in a rush." Another Tulsa resident, Al Rhodes: â€œThe only way to get around on the streets is to go through the tracks we made ourselves, other than that it's awful."

The snow that fell over Tulsa Sunday morning has now turned into a slushy mess. The temperature's dropping, so the snow and slush is refreezing and turning into ice, causing problems for people trying to get around. Mannford resident, Wanda Greenwood: "Yes, and I walked slow, girl!"

EMSA's 911 center is getting double the calls they normally get. Many of those are from people injured as a result of slips and falls. â€œThe falls are going to be more of the parking lots, people walking out of their front door, not expecting it to be slippery right there, falls outdoors." EMSA communication supervisor, Bryon Schultz says even folks who would normally drive to the emergency room on their own for minor emergencies are instead calling the ambulance.

For some, the risk of being on the streets is just too dangerous. "We are a means for getting people medical care-don't blame people for wanting to do that on a day like today."

So, if you have to be out and about, walk slowly and carefully or hang on to someone or something like this kid.

And remember this about Oklahoma weather. â€œIf you don't like it, just stay a little bit, it'll come to what you want.â€ Sounds good doesn't it, but this weather will be around for quite awhile.