SNOW!

As we dig ourselves out of another heaping pile of winter, I started thinking about what our road crews go through. Our local PennDot crews and Borough Street crews put in countless hours trying to keep up when the weather turns ugly. They work all day and all night, through the worst possible conditions, so that we can travel as safely as possible.

Several things that I saw today also made me think that we, as citizens, should also do our part to make THEIR jobs safer and easier.

When it is snowing very hard, the roads are slippery, and visibilty is very limited...do people really think its a good idea to be standing out on the highway with shovel/snowblower in hand? I mean, everybody wants to dig out, but I saw several people step right onto roadways without any regard for approaching vehicles. I guess it doesn't occur to them that the vehicle driver may not see them, or cannot stop in time. Stay off the dang road.

Another thing that I have noticed is the increase in ATV use to plow snow. Those things sure are handy, and they move a lot of snow in a hurry! It sure beats the old shovel and lumbar power. But, while a blind eye is turned regarding the use of ATV's, especially in the Borough, please be aware that it is illegal to operate an unlicensed motor vehicle on public streets/ highways. The only reason I mention it is because now the plow drivers have to watch out for ATV's darting out into the street.

If you are plowing snow with an ATV, in the Borough, thank you! But please be aware of cars, plow trucks, pedestrians, etc. I would hate to see an "incident" that would ruin it for everyone.

And while you are digging,plowing, sweating, and throwing all that white stuff, one can't help but wonder what the heck to DO with all of it. Well, do whatever you can, but DO NOT throw/shovel/plow it back into the roadway! Not only is it illegal, but more importantly, it creates more work for the road crews and it is a safety hazard.

If you want your favorite parking spot plowed out, then get off the sofa and move your car while the crews are out plowing. Don't wait two days and then, while the crews are resting or doing their many other duties, call and complain about being plowed in.

We are very fortunate in Cameron County. We have some of the best road crews that anyone could ask for. Lets help them help us. Be safe out there.