Winter has arrived, so it’s time for the “talk” about the safety for the upcoming winter. Children need to understand that snow plows are very large, and that they take time to slow down and stop.
With all the fun there is outside, kids may not hear a snow plow approaching. They need to take the time to listen, look, and move back away from the road when they see or hear a plow coming. We all know that playing near roads is not a safe place for the kids to play during the winter, with cars sliding and the chance of children falling or sliding into the roadway of an approaching snow plow or car. The results would be tragic. We need to remind the kids that building snow forts near the street is also unsafe. Snow plow operators and drivers will have difficulty seeing children if they are hidden from view while playing behind or under a pile of snow. Everyone needs to be aware of safety around snow plows on and off the roadways. The operators are performing a necessary function, and if they are able to focus on their work without distractions, the process will run smoothly.
Make sure you are at a safe distance when pulling out in front of a plow truck. The trucks weigh in excess of 10 tons and require a longer than normal stopping distance on slick pavement.
Remember snow plows tend to travel at a lower rate of speed than other vehicles, so be sure slow down if you see one in front of you. They may need to stop more frequently than other drivers to make sure the lights are free from snow and ice. Do turn your lights on so that the snow plow operator can see you. You should have your headlights on even during daylight hours when it is snowing.
When following a plow, allow plenty of stopping distance. Plow trucks make frequent stops and back up with little warning. Remember, if you cannot see a plow truck's side view mirrors, the driver cannot see you.
Remain at a safe distance from rock salt. Rock salt is our main defense against slick pavement and our plows are capable of spreading this salt in a 20-foot pattern behind and to the sides of the vehicle. The use of shielding helps to deflect this pattern, but occasionally rock salt can damage nearby vehicles or come in contact with pedestrians.
If you are attempting to pass a snowplow, DO NOT pass on the right-hand side. When the snow plow is being operated, the snow and any debris the blade picks up will be deposited on the right side. When a snow plow is being driven, it can create a snow cloud behind it. Drivers should avoid following the snow plow too closely, since the cloud of snow can interfere with visibility.
