Winter Driving & Inclement Weather

Purpose

Provide Spartan Plumbing technicians with specific guidelines for safe driving during Ohio's winter weather conditions, including snow, ice, freezing rain, and extreme cold.

When to Use

• Any time snow, ice, or freezing rain is present or forecasted
• When temperatures drop below freezing and road conditions may be affected
• When visibility is reduced due to snow, fog, or freezing rain

Procedure

Pre-Trip Preparation

Check weather and road conditions before leaving the shop or your home

Allow extra time for travel — plan for 1.5x to 2x normal drive times

Clear ALL snow and ice from your vehicle: windshield, rear window, side mirrors, headlights, taillights, and the roof

Ensure your wipers are working and washer fluid is full (winter formula)

Verify your truck has: ice scraper, small shovel, blanket, flashlight, and phone charger

Driving in Snow and Ice

Reduce speed significantly — posted limits are for ideal conditions

Increase following distance to 6-8 seconds (double normal)

Brake gently and early — slamming brakes causes skidding

If you start to slide, ease off the gas and steer gently in the direction you want to go

Use low gear for going downhill to reduce brake usage

Avoid sudden lane changes or sharp turns

Getting Stuck

Do not spin your tires — this digs you deeper

Rock the vehicle gently between forward and reverse

Use sand, cat litter, or floor mats under the drive wheels for traction

If you cannot get out, contact dispatch — they will arrange assistance

Stay with your vehicle if waiting for help — do not walk on busy roads in bad conditions

Black Ice

Black ice is most common on bridges, overpasses, and shaded road sections

If you hit black ice, do NOT brake or steer sharply — coast through it

Reduce speed before bridges and overpasses, even if the road ahead looks clear

Customer Communication

If you will be late due to weather, contact dispatch immediately — they will update the customer

Do not rush to make up time in bad conditions — safety is the priority

Emergency calls still need service in winter — but take extra precautions

Important Notes

• You have the authority to decide road conditions are too dangerous to drive — contact dispatch and they will reschedule
• You will NOT be penalized for weather-related delays or refusals to drive in unsafe conditions
• Dig yourself out as needed to get to work, but if roads are truly impassable, communicate early
• Salt and brine cause rust — report any undercarriage concerns during your regular inspections

Related SOPs

• Severe Weather Protocol — broader severe weather procedures
• Daily Vehicle Inspection Checklist — winter-specific items
• Defensive Driving Standards — general safe driving