Snow Plowing Tips

The individuals that drive a snow plow have to be ready to go at any time of the day or night. An individual that drives a snow plow has to have practice. They will usually go out with an experienced person and begin to gain experience. First they watch and listen. Then they will be given the chance to drive with the experienced person. Finally, they will go solo. A person that drives a plow must have a good enough vehicle that will get them to their job on time. When the phone rings from the supervisor, they have to be ready to go.

Here are some helpful tips for the snow plow driver. Check your equipment. This is usually done weeks before the first snow fall occurs. Look for leaks and cracks in hoses, salt spreader, lights wiper blades, tires, and chains. Be sure your vehicle is up to cold standards. Have extra emergency flares, first aid kit, heavy duty chain, and a fire extinguisher. Some drivers will carry an extra blanket or two for stranded motorists.

Your diet is very important. Caffeine products will stimulate at first but, become depressants later. Eat low fat and high protein items. Stay away from fat and greasy items. They tend t o make you sleepy. Chicken, fish, soup, fresh fruit and veggies are great. To avoid getting too sluggish, roll down your window a crack for fresh air. Stop in the middle of the road, when there is no traffic around and stretch your legs. Most accidents with a snow plow are caused by tired sluggish decisions. A driver must be alert at all times for unseen problems that jump up.

The time to begin clearing shoulders and structures and moving snow is after the storm has past. The first item on your agenda is the road itself. Never assume that other motorists know what you are doing. Many times blowing snow will block the other motorists view of your work. You generally sit up higher so you can get a better view than a typical driver. Make sure your lights are on. Make sure that your brake lights and turn indicators are used properly.