Winnipeg, MB - Winter snowfalls mean sanding and snow clearing - and snow clearing equipment. To promote safety around winter snow clearing operations, the City of Winnipeg has partnered with the Heavy Equipment and Aggregate Truckers Association of Manitoba (H.E.A.T.) to raise awareness of potential hazards around snow clearing equipment.
“The Stay Back, Stay Safe campaign reminds everyone about winter safety practices,” said Jim Berezowsky, Manager of the Streets Maintenance Division of the Public Works Department. “Winter snow clearing equipment may have blind spots, meaning that it’s hard for operators to see other vehicles when they’re too close. Bad weather conditions can also contribute to poor visibility.”
“Snow clearing operators work hard in winter conditions to make roads safe for you and your families,” said Nicole Chabot, Immediate Past President of H.E.A.T. “Our dedicated operators do their best to keep roadways safe and clear, and not to get in your way. It’s your job to be cautious around snow clearing equipment, and to adjust your driving to winter conditions.”
It’s in everyone’s best interest to Stay Back, Stay Safe. Plowing and sanding crews need room to get our roads back in top shape. Motorists and pedestrians can follow a few simple tips when they encounter snow clearing equipment to make snow clearing easier for everyone:
SLOW DOWN AND KEEP WELL BACK from snow clearing equipment - don’t crowd the plows. A minimum of 15 metres (about three car lengths) is the recommended distance to leave plenty of room for the equipment to work.
BE VISIBLE and keep headlights on at all times when travelling. Snow clearing equipment may cause snow clouds that reduce visibility, so be prepared.
BE READY TO STOP because snow clearing equipment moves at a much slower speed than other vehicles, and operators stop frequently to assess the areas they are clearing. Freshly plowed streets can also be slippery until the sand or salt trucks have applied the appropriate material, so slow down to better maneuver slippery road conditions.
DO NOT PASS ON THE RIGHT hand side of the equipment. Snow and debris are often plowed to the right, and pose a severe hazard to motorists.
MAKE EYE CONTACT with the operator if you are unsure of where the equipment is going, and wait until they see you. The operator may finish the task, or, if safe to do so, may stop and wave you through before continuing their work.
AVOID DRIVING THROUGH WINDROWS or snow banks. Snow clearing machines usually have to make several passes in order to clear a roadway from snow buildup. If you drive through a windrow, you risk getting stuck in the snow and ice, damaging your vehicle or scattering the snow, which creates a hazard for other motorists.
For more information, please visit the City of Winnipeg’s Stay Back, Stay Safe.