ALBANY, N.Y. -- Falling snow means slippery areas, unplowed roads and other potential obstacles. That's difficult for anyone, let alone the visually impaired.

The Northeastern Association of the Blind is reminding those in the Capital Region to make sure to shovel and be mindful of those with disabilities. NABA is located in Albany, where the city requires residents to shovel within 24 hours of each snowfall. They say that's helpful as they try to fulfill the organization's mission.

"What we're trying to do is make people independent, and that means having a job and taking care of their family,” said Christopher Burke, executive director of Northeastern Association of the Blind. "That means going to the grocery store and not rely on someone else, not rely on public programs to necessarily help them. People have to be able to get to work."

So far this year, Albany has issued 174 tickets to residents who have not properly removed snow.