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County plow trucks typically travel below the posted speed limit, as slower operating speeds are more effective for clearing roads, applying salt and, if conditions are desirable, anti-icing liquid.

BE PATIENT

Crowding, tailgating or passing a snow plow can be very dangerous. A fully loaded plow truck cannot maneuver easily or stop quickly and has many blind spots. Don’t assume a snow plow operator can see you, especially if you are driving too close and visibility is poor, which is often the case.

DON’T TRY TO PASS

Passing a snow plow is never a good idea. Although they move slowly, the road behind an active plow is always safer than the road ahead. A good rule of thumb is to allow 10 car lengths between you and the plow since plowing creates a cloud of snow, which can decrease visibility and simulate whiteout conditions.

BEFORE THE STORM
Our crews get prepared and:

• Check for changing road and weather conditions.
• Make sure staff, supplies and equipment are ready and available.
• Apply anti-icing liquid to road surfaces (if conditions are desirable)

DURING THE STORM
During a typical snowstorm, crews will:

• Spread salt when the snow starts to accumulate
• Plow when there is snow or slush on the roads. Note: crews may need to go over their routes several times during a storm.
• Continue monitoring road, weather and traffic conditions
• Refuel and reload salt, sand and anti-icing liquids

AFTER THE STORM
After a typical snowstorm, crews will:

• Monitor road, weather and traffic conditions
• Continue to clear roads
• Remove snow banks that may cause a hazard
• Check for damage to items such as signs and guide rails that may have occurred during the storm and make necessary repairs
• Inspect and, if required, repair winter equipment
• Refuel and restock salt, sand and anti-icing liquids

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

• Check the weather forecast. If it looks bad, delay your trip if possible
• Visit Ontario 511 to check road conditions, or check Twitter @511Ontario
• Monitor local news sources for localized road and weather information

ON THE ROAD

• Adjust your speed for road conditions
• Turn on your headlights and tail lights, even during the day
• Use winter-rated snow tires with the mountain-snowflake symbol
• Assume that bridges are slippery since they freeze more quickly than road surfaces
• Keep your fuel tank at least half full to help reduce moisture in the fuel system and add weight to the vehicle

PACK A WINTER SURVIVAL KIT

It’s a good idea to keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Recommended
items include:

• Ice scraper/snowbrush
• Shovel
• Traction mats or sand
• Flashlight
• Blanket and extra warm clothes
• Jumper cables
• Candles and a lighter or matches
• First aid kit
• Non-perishable energy foods (e.g. granola bars) and bottled water