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DRIVERS have been warned to keep their distance around snow plows this winter – with the legal requirement perhaps more than many would think.
Officials for Spokane County Public Works, Washington States, recently revealed their snow response plan after the recent severe weather.
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The county is responsible for more than 5,100 miles of paved, gravel and dirt roads – all of which their snow plows are tasked with maintaining.
As reported by KREM2 News, County Commissioner Josh Kerns said: “This winter, the county has a $4.5 million snow removal budget.
With stockpiles of sand and deicer at the four road districts, our equipment fleet includes 38 snow-plows and sanding trucks, 34 graders and 4 deicing trucks.
“During a major snow event, crews will first clear emergency routes and primary arterials before moving on to secondary arterials and residential neighborhoods.”
The tools at their disposal include newly purchased grader chains, grader blades and the addition of Sharq blades – used on thick layers of compact snow and ice on road surfaces.
On these, Senior Director of Public Works Kyle Twohig added: “These blades chew through the coating of ice, making it easier for sand and deicer to work their way in and soften the ice so it can be scraped up.”
However, drivers using roads throughout the county have been warned to stay at least 50 feet behind snow plows and other snow removal equipment when they’re in operation.
It’s also imperative that they never pass these vehicles on the right.
It’s also suggested that drivers keep emergency supplies in their cars including a medical kit, flashlight, shovel, traction sand, and blankets.
Thanksgiving week has brought sub-zero temperatures and severe storms across the US.
Flights have been cancelled because of the weather, while many cars have been left stranded during the resulting travel chaos.
Temperatures have dropped to as low as 5F in the far north, while much of the Midwest is experiencing lows in the 20s or 30s.
One major issue for drivers in the winter months is windscreen fog and misty, but luckily a little-known trick has been revealed that can help keep windows free from fog.
Better yet, it simply requires a $9 item that might already be sat in your kitchen cupboard.
Car owners should also keep an eye out for a dashboard warning light as temperatures begin to drop.
Failure to do so could result in a very costly tire repair bill not long after.
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