Every driver on a road-clearing fleet is a hero for us everyday folks. Snow plow drivers are no exception. A road that isn't clear is dangerous for any driver, especially in winter when the snow starts to fall and the storms begin. Yet snow plow drivers are up for this challenge every year. John, a snow plow driver in Montana, had a brush with danger and lived to tell the story.
As the snow began to fall, John grabbed his keys and headed out to his snow plow. It was going to be a long night, but he was up for the challenge. He had been plowing snow for as long as he could remember and knew how to handle even the worst storms.
As he made his way down the snow-filled road, John couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. He was the night's hero, helping to keep the roads clear and safe for everyone. But as he rounded a bend, he saw something that made his heart skip a beat.
A car had lost control and crashed into a ditch. John could see that the driver was in distress, so he quickly pulled over and jumped out of his plow. He ran over to the car and saw that the driver was unconscious.
Without hesitation, John pulled out his phone and called for help. As he waited for the ambulance to arrive, he did everything he could to keep the driver warm and comfortable.
When the ambulance finally arrived, John felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew that the driver was in good hands now, and he could get back to his job of clearing the roads.
As he drove off into the night, John couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to make a difference. He knew that his job was more than just plowing snow - it was about keeping people safe, which he took very seriously.
Essential workers like John need to stay safe on the job. To do that, snow plow operators must proactively prepare for winter driving.
Consider preparations that include inspecting the plows and load-bearing mechanisms, checking for damage, testing each piece of equipment, checking fluid levels, and training your employees.
Inspect the plows and load-bearing mechanisms regularly
Inspect your plows and load-bearing mechanisms regularly to identify any potential issues or wear and tear. This may involve visual inspections, as well as testing the functionality of the tools.
Check for damage
Look for any visible damage to the plows and load-bearing mechanisms, including dents, cracks, or bent components. If you identify any damage, repair or replace the affected parts as needed.
Test the functionality of the mechanisms
Make sure to test the functionality of the plows and load-bearing tools to ensure that they are operating correctly. This may involve activating the mechanisms and checking for smooth and proper operation.
Check the fluid levels
Check the fluid levels in the plows and load-bearing mechanisms, including hydraulic fluid and grease. If the fluid levels are low, add more as needed.
Clean and lubricate the mechanisms
Regularly cleaning and lubricating the plows and load-bearing mechanisms can help extend their lifespan and improve their performance. Use a cleaner specifically designed for these mechanisms, and lubricate all moving parts.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations
Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintaining your plows and load-bearing mechanisms. This may include specific maintenance tasks, as well as guidelines for how often to perform these tasks.
Keep accurate maintenance records
Make sure to keep correct records of all maintenance and repairs performed on your fleet's plows and load-bearing mechanisms. This will help you track the overall health of the tools and identify any potential issues before they become significant problems.
Train your team
Ensure your team is appropriately trained on checking and maintaining your fleet's plows and load-bearing mechanisms. This may involve providing hands-on training or access to educational materials and resources.
Preparing with emergency supplies allows road clearing and snow removal fleets to respond quickly when needed. John's snow plow was equipped with proper winter tires. It had undergone regular maintenance, allowing him to navigate the slippery roads safely. He had also received training on winter driving techniques. He followed a winter driving policy to ensure his safety and the safety of others on the road.
Despite the challenges faced on the job, road-clearing professionals can take pride in their role as a hero on the road, helping to keep people safe during winter storms.
Stay safe on the road with fleet tracking solutions that help drivers and fleets proactively prepare for adverse road conditions. Want to know more about getting started with fleet tracking? Reach out to us, click here on your phone or dial: 1-877-907-0801.
