A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: RYAN SHERBROOKE

WRITTEN BY: KATIE JENISON PHOTOS BY: URBAN TOAD MEDIA

It’s no secret Mother Nature can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to Midwest winters. We’re no strangers to heavy snowfall and white-out conditions. Since we are used to the snow, it can be easy to take clear roads, driveways, and sidewalks after a snowstorm for granted — but it doesn’t happen by magic. It’s all thanks to hardworking snow removal crews willing to sacrifice sleep and family time so the community can safely get from Point A to Point B.

It may come as a surprise to some, but planning for a snowstorm starts long before the first flake falls. The process begins with a contract that determines just how much snow needs to fall before snow removal occurs. Contractors refer to this threshold as a snowfall trigger. Clear roads, driveways, and parking lots are all thanks to hard-working snow removal contractors willing to sacrifice sleep and family time so the community can safely get from Point A to Point B.

These triggers can vary from property to property and typically depend on the client’s level of liability. Commercial properties like grocery stores and strip malls usually have a zero-tolerance trigger, which requires snow removal for even a light dusting. Residential properties such as apartment buildings usually require removal for snowfall over an inch.

There are many moving parts when it comes to preparing for snow events. Dedicated triggers make it easier for contractors to coordinate snow removal efforts when a storm occurs. They can plan routes and schedule crews based on their clients’ triggers and how much snowfall is anticipated. That said, we all know how fickle the weather truly is. Things can change at any time, and contractors have to keep a close eye on the weather.

Depending on the storm, snow removal crews will typically wait to head out once the snow has stopped. Until then, they stay busy preparing the equipment. From snow plows to payloaders, each piece of equipment undergoes extensive safety inspections. Crews will also perform necessary maintenance to ensure equipment is in optimal working condition before leaving the shop.

Most snow removal takes place at night when there are fewer obstacles to contend with. It certainly makes the job a little easier, but it requires crews to adjust to a

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: RYAN SHERBROOKE

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: RYAN SHERBROOKE

new sleep and work schedule. Shifts frequently run on a 12-hour swing, so if there’s time, crews will try to grab a little shut-eye before their overnight shift starts.

Once the snow stops, it can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to clear. If a snowstorm lasts for multiple days or is accompanied by high winds, it can take even longer. While some snow events may only produce a few inches, the wind can cause large snowdrifts to build up. To combat long-lasting storms and blowing snow, contractors will perform a quick pass while waiting for the storm to end. At that time, they’ll clear residential driveways and aisleways, entrances, and emergency exits at commercial and multi-family housing properties. Snow removal isn’t a walk in the park ... Crews work long hours operating heavy equipment and shoveling by hand in often freezing temperatures. The job also comes with a long list of dangers.

Crews work long hours operating heavy equipment and shoveling by hand in often freezing temperatures. The job also comes with a long list of dangers, which is why contractors go through meticulous safety training. They’re also taught how important it is to be aware of their surroundings at all times.

One of the most obvious dangers they face is drivers crowding snow plows. Drivers tend to be impatient when dealing with a slow-moving plow. To prevent an accident from occurring, plow drivers will pull off to the side when they can to let vehicles pass safely. In addition to other drivers, snow removal crews have to be aware of stationary obstacles such as fire hydrants and utility boxes.

Contractors also have to keep an eye out for signs of kids playing in snowbanks. Large piles of snow are the perfect place for kids to sled, build forts, and dig tunnels. However, there is a hidden danger to playing in snowbanks, especially when snow removal crews are out and about.

Only when the snow has been cleared do crew members call it a day. If they’re lucky, they’ll be able to head home to enjoy a warm meal and catch up on sleep. Some may only get a short break before they have to go back to work for a regularly scheduled shift.

Despite the long hours and physical demands of the job, snow removal contractors find it rewarding. They enjoy stepping up to the challenge that each snow event presents and take pride in a job well done. It is a rigorous and time-consuming process, but snow removal crews do what they do to make our lives easier.

How can we return the favor? Remember to give plows and equipment operators plenty of space, and if you can, park your vehicles in the garage. Above all, try to be patient and understanding. Snow removal crews are often underappreciated, but a kind word or a friendly wave can go a long way. •