Efficient Snow Clearance Starts with Planning
PREPARING AREAS, USE OF GUIDE MARKERS
Every area to be plowed should be inspected before snowfall for potential hazards. Holes should be repaired, raised manhole covers leveled or noted and obstructions noted to prevent damage to the plow mounting or vehicle undercarriage.
Markers or stakes with reflectors should be in position to indicate boundaries of areas to be plowed, location of
The first step in organizing an efficient plan is to prepare a map or procure a blueprint of the area. Locate and mark all utilities, outlets, shutoffs, catch basins and possible emergency equipment that must be reached from outside.
Figure the square footage of each area and the total area. Especially note areas from which snow will have to be carried, call "trapped'' areas. Although hauling is expensive, it is necessary where piled snow would limit access. indicate clearing priorities on your map.
This may aid you in preparing a priority plan for your clearance operation.
KEEP SNOW UNDER CONTROL
Deep or heavy, wet snow, because of its increased weight, calls for more skillful and powerful plowing than light powder snow.
Always plow in low gear and keep plowing. Heavy snow may also require clearing a path or area for working room to move snow to another area. Remember that wet snow weighs about 12 pounds per cubic foot. As it piles up in front of a snowplow blade, the weight can quickly increase to several tons.
Where packed snow or ice must be plowed, it is sometimes necessary to lower the cutting blade to rest directly on the road surface. In that situation, plow in lowest gear for greatest power to the cutting edge. This method also prevents the plow from "climbing over" the icy surface.
If plowing very deep snow, 12 inches or more, you may have to plow with the blade partially raised to shear off successive layers of snow until a working area is clear. Then work small "bites" into the edge. The "bite" depth should be inversely proportional to the snow depth. A rule of thumb: 6 inch snow may be plowed with the entire blade width;
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