Snow And Ice Control Tips For Ontario

Winter season in Ontario can be challenging for people and contractors involved in snow and ice removal. Road safety is the Ministry of Transportation’s priority and responsible for snow and ice control on highways. However, weather conditions can be unpredictable, and you should ensure that you are well prepared for winter roads and adjust yourself according to the conditions.

Winter maintenance is to be monitored regularly with snow and ice removal operations. Snow and ice control operations include plowing and salting, carried out in response to a storm or any extreme weather. While removing ice and snow, highways, bus routes, and main routes are given top priority. The contractors need to follow best practices in snow and ice removal and make roads safe for the people and vehicles.

Here Are Some Of The Snow And Ice Control Tips

1. Managing The Snow And Ice With Salt

Timely application of rock salt is an effective way of removing ice and snow deposited on roads. Rock salt prevents snow and ice from bonding to the road surface. For this reason, salt is used for removing ice even in heavy storms. In some areas, liquid de-icers are also used to minimize the bonding between snow and road surface.

2. Providing Traction

Snow or ice makes the surfaces slippery, and sand can be used to provide traction on slippery surfaces. Even though sand does not melt ice, it is used when the temperatures are too low for the salt to be effective. Extra caution should be exercised while driving in these road conditions.

3. Pile Removed Snow In A Safe Place

After removing the snow, it should be placed safely so that the sudden meltdowns do not flood the nearby farms or buildings. Melting down of ice can create runoff problems in the nearby waterways.

4. Always Keep Updated With All Maintenance Requirements

Contractors need to be updated with all the maintenance requirements in snow and ice removal.

5. Wear Proper Clothing and Footwear In Snow and Ice Removal

Proper clothing must be worn while removing snow and ice removal on the streets. Contractors’ staff must use clothing like jackets, winter boots, gloves, and other safety equipment. High visibility clothing is a must for staff working in high traffic areas.

6. Winter Driving Survival Kit

If you are driving on snowy roads, you must have a winter driving survival kit in your car for your comfort and safety. Having essential supplies can provide some comfort and safety for you and your passengers.

Items in Survival Kit

• Snow Brush
• Shovel
• Road Flares or warning lights
• Fire Extinguisher
• Extra Clothing and footwear
• Energy foods like chocolates, instant coffee or tea, and bottled water
• First Aid Kit

Conclusion

Rock Salt plays a vital role in snow and ice removal in winter seasons. Contractors need to have an ample supply of salt to make the roads safer for people. If you are a snow removal contractor, you need to have the right rock salt for ice removal. Canada Salt Group Ltd is a reliable and trusted supplier of bulk road salt in Ontario. Contact us for a free estimate.