Staffordshire’s gritting and snow plough crews are already gearing up for the onslaught of colder weather with the start of Operation Snowflake on Monday 20th October.
The operation has seen the council refreshing teams on procedures and overhauling the 40 plus strong gritting fleet to ensure they are ready to roll into action when needed.
Around 28,000 tonnes of salt has been stockpiled and weather and road conditions are monitored around the clock to allow the crews to strike as early as possible when the icy conditions hit.
Mark Deaville, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Support Member for Highways & Transport, said: “Our crews always do a fantastic job helping to keep the county safely on the move and it is essential we are prepared for whatever winter has in store for us.
“We have been training crews, making sure our fleet is in tip-top condition and stocking up on salt so we can be ready to make pre-emptive strikes and minimise the impact of ice, snow and flooding on our roads.
“While it is still quite mild, the teams will be continuing with daily highway operations, but it is great to know they are good to go when needed.”
Did you know… The County Council has the largest gritting network in the West Midlands and grits 43% of its 6,000km highways out of six winter maintenance depots not only here in Stone, but also Stafford, Leek, Gailey, Lichfield and Hemmingslow.
Nine weather stations across the county allows the opportunity to gather data on road conditions, temperatures and also receive pictures 24 hours a day.
As part of Operation Snowflake, over the weekend crews fitted ploughs to the vehicles and road tested the gritters.
Mark added: “Operation Snowflake marks the start of winter for the county council, and our highways teams will be out in force over the coming months doing everything they can to keep the county moving.
“When the bad weather does come, people can play their part too by taking extra care on the roads, looking out for friends and neighbours, and helping community groups keep local footpaths clear of snow and ice.”
