Caution urged around snow operations Published Feb. 5, 2010 By JC Corcoran 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The recent high winds, frigid temperatures and blowing snow leave little doubt that "Old Man Winter" isn't quite ready to release his grip on New England. In fact, with more than 43 days remaining until the official start of spring, experienced New Englanders know that another major snowfall is likely just around the corner. Keeping that possibility in mind, the crews responsible for keeping Hanscom's streets, parking lots and sidewalks free from snow are making every effort to ensure that each piece of equipment is checked and rechecked so it is in prime condition when needed. When a storm hits, Hanscom's ground crews work long shifts in efforts to keep ahead of the snowfall. Clearing the way so other members of the Hanscom community can do their jobs is not an easy task and can be made more difficult by some individuals' actions. According to John Raynes, deputy project manager, Aleut Global Solutions, LLC, the roads and grounds crews know there's no other job more important than moving the snow so the Hanscom community can get to work. "When a snowstorm is predicted, our folks are on standby waiting for that call to come to work," Mr. Raynes said. "In fact, in some cases, our ground crews that may have just gotten off a day shift are recalled to the base to help where needed. "When a major storm hits, our folks are out there working 12 to 14 hour shifts which includes holidays like Christmas and New Years," Mr. Raynes said. In addition to the unpredictable hours and effort involved in clearing the snow, careless drivers can confound the crews' efforts by forgetting it is better to be safe than sorry and posing safety concerns, Mr. Raynes said. To ensure safety during base snowplow operations, drivers and pedestrians need to remember a few simple safety precautions. - Stay the mandated 100 feet behind any snow vehicle operating with hazard or strobe lights flashing -- it's the law. - When snow plows are working in tandem (two or three across), never try to cut between them. Getting to work in one piece is a lot better than never getting there at all. - Give equipment operators the right of way during snow removal and plowing operations. - Never drive under, around or near dump truck loading operations. Blind spots, weather conditions and noise levels may make you invisible to the other driver. - Don't park on snow piles or near fire zones and be sure to slow down when approaching intersections. Snow piles can create blind spots to both vehicle operators and pedestrians. - Never assume the other driver can see you. When walking, always wear light colors or reflective tape to make yourself more visible to drivers. - Those going on temporary duty should park their vehicles only in designated areas to avoid impeding the snow removal process. - Never assume that you have enough room and time to pull out in front of that moving 2.5-ton vehicle loaded with snow. Showing consideration and being extra cautious during snow operations will help keep everyone safe and ensure we are all here to enjoy the summer of 2010, Mr. Raynes said.