Snow and Ice Operations and Procedures

Snow Plow

PRETREATMENT

Snow and ice operations begin with watching up to the minute local and nearby community weather forecasts that tell us approximately when a two (2) inch or greater snow accumulation will begin so that we can pretreat the roads just prior to the beginning of the snowfall. Pretreatment consists of a light salting of the roads to prevent the snow from being compacted and frozen on the road surface.

WHEN THE SNOWFALL STARTS

Actual snow plowing begins when the snow accumulates two (2) inches, or when forecasts indicate that it will. Over 15 Town and private contractor plows can be deployed and assigned to pre-determined routes. Top priority is given to the town's main roads.

AFTER THE STORM

After the snowstorm has ended our crews must continue to monitor all roads for icy spots, drifting snow, etc. At this time, an application of sand or salt is usually applied to all road surfaces. Some roads will receive an application of deicing chemicals (i.e., salt) to melt the remaining snow and ice.

GENERAL SNOW AND WINTER TIPS

  • Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
  • Expect any travel to take longer and plan accordingly.
  • Drive slowly, and with caution at all times.
  • Maintain extra distance to vehicles in front of you, with your headlights on at all times.
  • Place reflectors at the edge of your lawn to avoid general landscaping or lawn damage.
  • Have patience with regards to snow removal.

TIPS FOR DRIVEWAY OPENINGS

Please be advised that town plow operators are not permitted nor obligated (by state law) to plow the end of driveways or any private ways free of snow that may have been pushed there from roadway clearance. This may raise concerns, however, there are steps to take to minimize snow blockage at the end of driveways. Please refer to the following sketch to learn how to remove snow to minimize excess driveway plow wind row blockage.

Driveway Snow

ADDITIONAL SNOW & ICE INFORMATION

Refer to the following links for further information and details on the Town of Spencer's Snow and Ice Operations & Procedures: