Care Needed During Snow Removal

In the interest of road safety, Nova Scotians are asked not to push snow from their property onto, or across, public highways.

In addition to creating a hazard to highway traffic, hard-packed snow can cause the blade of a snow plow to flip up and damage the truck or even force the plow into oncoming traffic.

"We've had a lot of snow this year and I know finding a place to put it can be a problem," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks. "For everyone's sake we're asking homeowners and private plowing contractors to take a few extra moments to make sure they keep snow off the highway right of way.

"Department supervisors are keeping an eye on problem areas," said Mr. Estabrooks, "but we're hoping the public, once they're aware of the problem, will do their best to help us in keeping our roads safe."

The department has more than 500 plows on the road during the winter season and drivers are on call 24 hours a day.

"Keeping our highways clear of snow is a tough job, demanding the full attention of our operators," said Mr. Estabrooks. "I'm sure Nova Scotians will do everything they can to help them do this important work safely."