The Indiana Department of Transportation is preparing for the upcoming winter season and will hold a training exercise Monday for its workers.
INDOT Southeast's fleet of more than 170 yellow snow trucks will be on state-maintained highways and interstates to test equipment and become more familiar with assigned routes.
Winter operations crews will be active between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. No materials such as salt or brine will be applied during the exercise.
“This is an opportunity for our new drivers to get on-the-road training and for more experienced drivers to share their knowledge,” said INDOT Winter Operations Manager Nick Evans. “We will treat this exercise as an actual winter weather event from start to finish. Our goal is to make sure crews and their trucks are ready to go when snow and ice arrives.”
For safe winter travel, INDOT offers the following tips:
- Slow down and adjust travel to conditions, especially on snow-covered roads.
- Don’t crowd the plow – never tailgate or drive beside a snowplow, as the driver's visibility may be limited. If you must pass, do so carefully.
- Be prepared in case of a crash or becoming stranded; always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle with items like food, water, a phone charger, sand or cat litter, flares or bright LED alternatives, a flashlight, and blankets.
- Keep your vehicle full of gas, and check your battery, fluids, and spare tire.
