Cold Weather Readiness
These should be layered in cold weather to help you stay warm and dry.
What are clothes (or clothing layers)?
Before you start spreading salt or sand, always make sure the back of the truck looks like this.
What is clear of snow and ice (or clean and not blocked)?
In snow or low visibility, always turn these on—even during the day.
What are headlights?
Stay alert for these workers when plowing or salting around sidewalks.
What are pedestrians (or shoveling crews)?
To prevent slipping when exiting a vehicle, always do this with your feet first.
What is step down carefully (or don’t jump)?
If your gloves or boots get wet during a shift, you should do this as soon as possible.
What is change them?
This material is commonly spread to help melt ice and provide traction.
What is salt (or sand)?
Tapping your brakes gently on ice is part of this safe driving technique.
What is feathering (or threshold braking)?
When working near intersections or driveways, you should watch for this common hazard, especially when visibility is low.
What are backing or turning vehicles (or unexpected cross traffic)?
Before leaving the garage, always make sure this safety item is cleared off the vehicle roof.
What is snow or ice?
You should always do this before long exposure to cold temperatures to avoid fatigue and frostbite.
What is take regular warm-up breaks?
If your plow isn’t scraping the road well, it may be due to this common issue.
What is packed snow or an uneven surface?
You should reduce your speed, especially on these types of roads.
What are hills, curves, or side streets?
If visibility is bad, you should do this before entering intersections.
What is slow down or stop completely?
Drinking this can help keep you alert and hydrated during long shifts.
What is water?
This type of weather alert means extreme wind chill is expected and outdoor exposure should be minimized.
What is a wind chill advisory?
When spreading near intersections or driveways, lower your speed to prevent this.
What is overspray or reduced visibility from flying salt?
When visibility drops and roads are slick, reduce your speed by this percentage.
What is 25–50% (depending on severity)?
Keep an eye out for these flashing lights—they often signal emergency or service vehicles.
What are hazard lights or beacons?
If you're unsure about the safety of a route or road, you should do this.
What is report it or ask a supervisor?
This item, though small, is essential for protecting your neck and face in harsh wind.
What is a neck gaiter or scarf?
When parking a plow truck for a break, this part should always be lowered to the ground.
What is the plow blade?
If your vehicle starts sliding, steer in this direction.
What is the direction of the skid (or where you want to go)?
You should notify your supervisor if your route becomes blocked due to this common snow event.
What is an unplowed or stuck vehicle (or downed tree)?
This is the best way to avoid injury when walking across icy surfaces.
What is take short, careful steps (or walk like a penguin)?