Gearing up for winter: November 20th is "Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day"

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker has proclaimed Thursday, November 20th as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.

The Governor’s proclamation (www.dot.wisconsin.gov/news/docs/2014snoplowapprec.pdf) highlights the important role snowplow operators play in keeping people and commerce moving throughout Wisconsin during the winter season. The proclamation also asks motorists to be cautious when they encounter snowplows and to limit driving during severe storms to avoid becoming stranded which impedes snow removal efforts.

"When Wisconsin’s weather is at its worst, our snowplow operators are at their best, often working long hours in challenging conditions to keep roadways open for commuters and commerce,” said Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Secretary Mark Gottlieb. “Our department has a long-standing and valued partnership with county and municipal highway departments to keep our state highway system free of snow and ice.”

To enhance public safety and assist plow operators, WisDOT offers the following winter driving tips:

As always – buckle up, pay attention to traffic and road conditions, slow down and drive sober to help reduce the number of preventable traffic deaths to "Zero in Wisconsin."