02/21/2019- Winter weather is being blamed for the deaths of four elderly residents in Marinette County already in 2019. Falling is a major concern for seniors in these types of conditions and people are encouraged to put cat litter, sand, or salt on the steps and driveways of these residences to increase safety. Additionally, older adults, especially those with heart disease, high blood pressure, and other serious medical conditions should leave show shoveling to others. The elderly are also more susceptible to hypothermia and even brief exposure to the cold, particularly the extremely low temps we’ve experienced this winter, can pose a serious health risk. Marinette County Medical Examiner Kalynn Van Ermen says this time of year it’s important for people to regularly check in on aging loved ones, or if you live out of town, make arrangements for nearby neighbors to check in.