Snowplows

Snowplow simulators offer operators training for winter in a no-foul environment

Snowplow simulators offer operators training for winter in a no-foul environment

Snowplow simulators offer operators training for winter in a no-foul environment

Snowplow simulators offer operators training for winter in a no-foul environment

By Kelsey Mo / ADOT Communications
December 7, 2024
A man operating a snowplow simulator

With winter well on its way, ADOT’s snowplow operators have been training on snowplow simulators since September to prepare for winter storms. 

What are these snowplow simulators? 

They’re an immersive tool we use that can be programmed with different scenarios that snowplow operators might encounter when they’re out plowing Arizona’s highways. The instructor running the course can change all sorts of variables of the course. 

Operators could practice plowing in daytime or nighttime conditions or driving on extremely icy or wet surfaces. Instructors can add extra challenges for operators to navigate, such as blowing out a tire, to see how the operator will react. This way, operators can get a feel for how the machinery would work during adverse conditions — but in this environment, if they hit a car or guardrail, they can start over. 

This all helps snowplow operators learn how to handle a plow more safely and, ultimately, help clear highways as quickly and safely as possible when snowstorms hit Arizona. 

Take a look at the video below to see how the simulators work.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Snowplow simulators help ADOT prep for winter storms

Snowplow simulators help ADOT prep for winter storms

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Snowplow simulators help ADOT prep for winter storms

Snowplow simulators help ADOT prep for winter storms

December 5, 2024

Immersive simulations offer operators training for icy, snowy roads

PHOENIX – When winter storms roll through Arizona, driving can be more difficult because of reduced visibility and slicker roads. Because of this, the Arizona Department of Transportation often encourages motorists to delay travel plans. But one group of people – ADOT’s snowplow operators – don’t have the option to stay off highways. In fact, they’re sent into the teeth of storms, tasked with clearing highways as quickly and safely as possible.

That’s why, as part of ADOT’s preparations for the winter season, snowplow operators have been training on snowplow simulators since September. 

ADOT has more than 400 trained snowplow operators to operate 200 snowplows that work around the clock when snowstorms hit. Last winter, operators covered about 1 million miles in snowplows across the state. 

ADOT’s snowplow simulators, located in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff and Holbrook, can be programmed with hundreds of scenarios that imitate what operators encounter along their routes on Arizona highways. A simulation may have an operator plowing roads that mimic interstates, like I-40 and I-17 in Flagstaff, or two-lane highways in urban and rural environments, among other variables. 

It’s a convenient and effective way for the operators to get a feel for how snowplows run without the risk of damaging equipment and to get practice in before snow falls.

“These simulators react in real-time, allowing our operators to learn how the equipment responds under different conditions,” Mario Ortega, ADOT training delivery manager, said. “They’re an important tool to help us prepare for winter storms and that leads to safer highways during the winter.” 

Instructors can alter the conditions of the simulation, changing from daytime or nighttime, adding iciness to the roads or affecting the visibility by simulating rain or snow. Some scenarios are designed to train operators to constantly scan their surroundings and might include an animal darting into the roadway or a car cutting off a snowplow.

“In these sorts of situations, it forces the operator to ask themselves ‘What would I do and how would I react?’ The simulators help train our employees and prepare them so they can operate the machinery more safely — and ultimately help keep the traveling public safer,” Ortega said.

Every year, ADOT snowplow operators are required to run through a refresher course on the simulator and complete a series of “winter readiness” classes that cover safety protocols, the different parts of the snowplow, plowing techniques and more. All operators have a commercial driver license.

Drivers of passenger cars can also do their part to keep everyone safer if they choose to travel during a snowstorm by:

  • Always staying at least four car-lengths behind a snowplow.
  • Never attempting to pass a snowplow, to prevent crashing into the massive vehicle.

ADOT reminds travelers to prepare for winter conditions. The safest thing to do if a snowstorm is coming is to delay travel until it passes. For those that choose to travel in winter storms, ensure that your vehicle is in good working order with tires equipped to handle winter weather and pack an emergency travel kit.

Get more information and tips for driving in winter weather at azdot.gov/KnowSnow

For the latest highway conditions, visit ADOT’s 511 Travel Information site or download the AZ511 app (free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store) to check highway information before leaving. Ensure that your vehicle is in good working order with tires equipped to handle snow and pack an emergency travel kit. 

ADOT preparing for winter season with summer snowplow training

ADOT preparing for winter season with summer snowplow training

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT preparing for winter season with summer snowplow training

ADOT preparing for winter season with summer snowplow training

September 4, 2024

Five new snowplows added to ADOT’s fleet

PHOENIX – While much of Arizona is experiencing 100-degree heat daily, the Arizona Department of Transportation is already preparing for winter.

ADOT acquired five new snowplows and held a training in Flagstaff in August to review the mechanics and technology of the equipment and provide instruction to staff on how to troubleshoot issues technicians and snowplow operators may encounter. 

About 20 ADOT staff — snowplow operators, equipment services technicians and others — from across Arizona attended the training that included classroom instruction and hands-on demonstration with a snowplow.

The five new snowplows will take up residence at maintenance yards across the state — one snowplow each at Flagstaff, Fredonia and Show Low and two snowplows in Prescott Valley — where they will replace snowplows that have been taken out of service due to high miles or mechanical issues. 

ADOT has 200 snowplows and 400 snowplow operators who work around the clock when snowstorms roll through the state. If you encounter a snowplow on a highway, give the plow space to do its work. Stay at least four car-lengths behind the plow and never attempt to pass the plow. Let the snowplow operators clear the road ahead for you and make travel safer for everyone.

ADOT’s announces winners in its Name-A-Snowplow Contest

ADOT’s announces winners in its Name-A-Snowplow Contest

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT’s announces winners in its Name-A-Snowplow Contest

ADOT’s announces winners in its Name-A-Snowplow Contest

February 28, 2024

3 new names chosen after Arizonans cast 9,500 votes

PHOENIX – The results are in for the Arizona Department of Transportation’s second Name-A-Snowplow Contest and Arizonans have chosen some humorous and creative names. 

After tabulating more than 9,500 votes, the winning snowplow names are:

  • “Snowbi-Wan Kenobi”
  • “Fast and Flurryous”
  • “Scoopacabra”

These winners beat out seven other finalists in the Name-A-Snowplow Contest, and the names have been placed on the driver’s side of three of ADOT’s snowplows. These three snowplows are stationed at an ADOT maintenance yard in Mesa and have been out clearing ice and snow along State Route 87 between Mesa and Payson this winter season. During other seasons, the plow blade is removed and the trucks are used in a variety of ways.

Arizonans in mid-January submitted around 3,400 names in the first phase of the Name-A-Snowplow Contest. Eleven people submitted variations of the name “Snowbi-Wan Kenobi,” 11 people submitted “Fast and Flurryous” and two people submitted “Scoopacabra.” 

“Snowbi-Wan Kenobi,” “Fast and Flurryous,” and “Scoopacabra” join last season’s winners “Alice Scooper,” “Snowguaro” and “Frost Responder.”

ADOT has 200 snowplows and 400 operators who work around the clock to lay down deicer and clear highways of ice and snow when winter storms hit. ADOT’s snowplow operators have been out for each winter storm this season, helping keep the traveling public safe. Drivers who choose to travel in winter storm conditions should be prepared to spend an extended amount of time in their vehicles. Check az511.gov or download the AZ511 app (free on Apple and Android) for real-time highway conditions.

And remember, if you encounter snowplows on highways:

  • Never attempt to pass a snowplow.
  • Stay at least four car-lengths behind snowplows and equipment. Plowed snow can create a cloud that reduces visibility.
  • Slow down and give the plow extra room.

Find more winter driving safety tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Voting now open in ADOT’s Name-A-Snowplow Contest

Voting now open in ADOT’s Name-A-Snowplow Contest

Voting now open in ADOT’s Name-A-Snowplow Contest

Voting now open in ADOT’s Name-A-Snowplow Contest

By Kelsey Mo / ADOT Communications
February 12, 2024
A snowplow parked in front of a lake and mountains.

Voting is now underway for ADOT’s second Name-A-Snowplow Contest. Arizonans submitted thousands of creative names, and it’s fantastic to see the participation!

Now, you have a chance to choose your top three favorites by going to azdot.gov/NameAPlow. The three names that receive the most votes will be crowned the winners and placed on the side of the snowplows. Voting is open through Thursday, Feb. 15, so the clock is ticking. Don’t miss out! 

The 10 finalists are:

  • Blizzard Buster
  • Cinder Claus
  • Fast and Flurryous 
  • Flake 48
  • Mogollon Monster
  • Plower Express
  • Scoopacabra 
  • Scooperstition
  • Snowbi-Wan Kenobi
  • Squall-E

With the recent winter storms, our snowplow operators have put in a lot of work to treat and clear the highways of ice and snow. Remember, if you encounter snowplows on highways: 

  • Never attempt to pass a snowplow. 
  • Stay at least four car-lengths behind snowplows and equipment. Plowed snow can create a cloud that reduces visibility.
  • Slow down and give the plow extra room.

Find more winter driving safety tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Arizona DOT (@arizona_dot)

ADOT’s snowplow operators prepare for winter season with immersive simulators

ADOT’s snowplow operators prepare for winter season with immersive simulators

ADOT’s snowplow operators prepare for winter season with immersive simulators

ADOT’s snowplow operators prepare for winter season with immersive simulators

By Kelsey Mo / ADOT Communications
December 1, 2023
Man operating a snowplow simulator while another observes his progress

With snow already falling in the high country, drivers across Arizona are counting on snowplow operators to clear highways. Operators of the Arizona Department of Transportation’s 200 snowplows have been training since late summer on snowplow simulators in preparation for the upcoming winter season.

ADOT’s five snowplow simulators can be programmed with scenarios that are meant to mimic what operators may encounter on Arizona roads. Instructors can create different simulations that give operators the opportunity to drive in various weather and roadway conditions. 

The simulator will react, allowing a snowplow driver to feel what it’s like to, for example, drive over railroad tracks or encounter an icy highway. Being prepared is important. During the busy winter season last year, ADOT snowplows covered 1.2 million miles, nearly twice as many as they drove during the 2021-22 winter season and operators logged more than 66,000 hours – more than double the previous season’s total.

This tool allows ADOT’s 400 snowplow operators to train before snow arrives. Simulators also have the benefit of not requiring fuel and operators can make mistakes, learn from them and do it again – no harm, no foul. This type of training saves money and helps make the roads safer for the traveling public.

While we’ve been prepping for winter, it’s important for motorists to do their part and get ready for winter driving conditions:

  • Visit ADOT’s 511 Travel Information site or download the AZ511 app (free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store).
  • Keep a fully-charged cell phone, drinking water and winter coats on hand when driving into snowy conditions.
  • Check that your vehicle is in good working order with tires equipped to handle snow. 
  • Always stay at least four car-lengths behind a snowplow to avoid crashing into the massive vehicle. 

Visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more tips on driving in winter weather.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Arizona DOT (@arizona_dot)

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

By Laurie Merrill / ADOT Communications
February 12, 2021

Flagstaff Snow Plows_012621

Snowplows and their drivers are the big heroes of Arizona snowstorms.

We got to see that during two storms in January that dumped snow so heavy and deep that multiple highways, including Interstate 17, were closed. Now there’s a forecast for more snow this weekend, with the possibility of accumulation in the high country.

But one thing you can rely on is that snowy roads are in the highly trained hands of 400 operators and 200 plows.  

Drivers stand ready to work 12-hour shifts in 45-foot long, 30-ton machines, which costs an average of $320,000.

As technology improves, so does snow removal speed. Check out the cutting edge features new on ADOT’s plows:

  • Cab heaters, so that drivers don’t have to idle.
  • Heated windshields, to stop wipers from freezing.
  • Backup cameras and a camera laser system, to help guide operators.
  • Front flex plows that can bend in different configurations.

Also, TowPlows are in use along Interstate 40 between Flagstaff and Williams. They are attached to plows and allow operators to clear two lanes on a single run.

Did you know the fleet also has snowblowers? These machines can clear out deep snow drifts, moving 4,000 to 5,000 tons of snow per hour and casting out 150 feet in white plume.

Additionally, 25 plows are equipped with new cameras that provide images to district offices. You’ve gotten to see some of these images on social media.

Remember: The safest place on a highway when it’s snowing is trailing a safe distance behind a snowplow. Always stay at least four lengths back. Always respect the plow. Don’t pass a plow unless it pulls over. If you can’t see the plow driver, there’s a good chance the driver can’t see you.

So what is the best advice for driving in a snowstorm? Don’t. It's best to delay travel if at all possible to allow plows to complete their work and avoid hazardous winter driving condtions. If you have to drive, check conditions at AZ511.gov or by using your AZ 511 app. Also check our Know Snow website to make sure you and your vehicle are snowstorm ready. 

ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at azdot.gov/ADOTAlerts will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications
January 21, 2021

One of the great things about Arizona is snow is just an hour or two away by vehicle. But it’s important to resist the urge to just jump in the car and go instead of leaving prepared.

Part of leaving prepared includes checking road conditions at az511.gov before leaving. It also includes packing plenty of warm clothes and an emergency kit that includes things like a fully charged cell phone, blankets, food and water, medications you need and even kitty litter or sand in case you get stuck in the snow.

Leaving prepared also includes remembering these two things:

  1. You may have to spend an extended period of time on the road due to weather or unplanned incidents. It's best to be prepared. 
  2. It’s illegal and unsafe to parking along the highway to play in the snow.

Highway shoulders are for emergencies, and stopping there can put you, your passengers and other drivers at risk. First responders often need to use highway shoulders, and a snowplow can hurl snow and ice far off the highway. So use designated parking at snow play areas.

Also, it’s not uncommon for lots of desert dwellers to take the opportunity to head north to play in the snow. So, remember to pack your patience and expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas.

Check azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more winter driving tips.

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications
December 15, 2020

Much like a football team makes a plan to win games, ADOT makes a plan to “win the winter season” by helping to keep highways clear of snow and ice. With thousands of miles of state highway located in areas where it snows, ADOT must carefully plan and deploy its resources to high-priority needs first.

Those high-priority needs are interstates like I-40 and I-17 that carry hundreds of thousands of vehicles and trucks everyday. Many of ADOT’s 200 snowplows will be deployed along an interstate like I-40 right before a winter storm so they are ready to go when the first snowflakes begin to fall.

State routes with lower traffic volumes are considered secondary routes because not as many vehicles use these roads. Once the interstates are cleared, ADOT snowplow operators will take care of these local state highways.

ADOT will also “block” certain state highways (that means close) as part of its game plan. SR 67 leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, state routes 261, 273 and 473 in the White Mountains and SR 366 heading up Mount Graham in southern Arizona all close for the winter.

These highways receive a lot of snow during the winter, so given that plus the fact that these roads end at destinations like the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it makes sense to close these roads so ADOT can keep its snowplows focused on interstates and other state highways. Crews return to these highways in the spring to plow them and get them ready for reopening.

It’s important for you to have a winter game plan as well. That plan includes leaving prepared before heading to the snow.

Check az511.gov before you leave to check road conditions. Download the ADOT Alerts and AZ 511 apps. Wait out the storm if possible to give ADOT’s snowplows time to clear the highways of snow and ice. Also, take a fully charged cell phone, warm clothing and an emergency kit that includes blankets, food and water, medication and sand or kitty litter.

Check your vehicle before heading out in winter weather, making sure – at a minimum – that the tires, heater and windshield wipers are in good shape.

You can formulate your game plan at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

When it comes to snow, ADOT has a plan to help keep highways open

When it comes to snow, ADOT has a plan to help keep highways open

I-17 101 traffic interchange

When it comes to snow, ADOT has a plan to help keep highways open

When it comes to snow, ADOT has a plan to help keep highways open

December 2, 2020

PHOENIX – When winter storms come through Arizona, major interstates like I-40 and I-17 are affected, impacting thousands of cars and trucks traveling on the highways. Fortunately, the Arizona Department of Transportation has a plan to help keep primary routes like interstates open during winter storms.

ADOT has a prioritization plan for plowing state highways in areas where it snows. Heavily-traveled roads like interstates that carry local and cross-country traffic come first. ADOT will have many of its 200 snowplows stationed at various points along interstates and other heavily-traveled highways when the snow begins to fall.

State routes with lower traffic volumes are considered secondary routes as not as many vehicles use these roads. Once the interstates are cleared, ADOT snowplow operators will take care of these local state highways.  

ADOT will also close certain state highways as part of its plan to deal with winter weather. SR 67 leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, state routes 261, 273 and 473 in the White Mountains area, and SR 366 heading up Mount Graham in southern Arizona all close for the winter. 

ADOT closes these state highways because of the heavy amount of snow they receive, and places like the North Rim close for the winter anyway. Closing these highways allows ADOT to keep its snowplows focused on interstates and other state highways. Crews return to these highways in the spring to plow them and get them ready for reopening.

ADOT has its plan for dealing with winter weather in Arizona, and we want drivers to have a plan as well. That plan includes leaving prepared before heading to the snow. 

Check az511.gov before you leave to check road conditions. Wait out the storm if possible giving ADOT’s snowplows time to clear the highways of snow and ice. Also, take a fully charged cell phone, warm clothing and an emergency kit that includes blankets, food and water, medication and sand or kitty litter.

Check your vehicle before heading out in winter weather, making sure – at a minimum – that the tires, heater and windshield wipers are in good shape. 

Get more information and tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.