Several training opportunities in October have proved successful for the crews at the Starke County Highway Department. Superintendent Rik Ritzler told the Starke County Commissioners that the snow plow drivers brushed up on skills and new drivers took in new information presented by Mark Ennis of Bliss-McKnight.
“Eleven of our drivers went to the IPEP safety training in Plymouth,” explained Ritzler. “We sent the newest drivers because there was winter weather safety, distracted driving, hazard awareness and other safety topics. We had the driving simulator at our garage for a few days. All of our drivers did that. They love doing that. He brings a different program every year. It’s kind of like playing video games and training at the same time. He also taught a winter snow plow training class that he does every year. The drivers enjoy him. They really relate with him.”
Meanwhile, residents should be prepared when the snow starts to gather on public roadways. If snow is in the forecast, prepare to leave for your destination a little earlier in order to allow extra time to drive on hazardous roads.
Put together an emergency preparedness kit for every vehicle. A few suggested items for kits include extra blankets, non-perishable food, jumper cables and spare clothes. Schedule an appointment with a mechanic for a thorough check of each vehicle before a winter storm hits, especially the brakes, battery and tires.
