Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is gearing up for snow. And Wednesday, crews are capping off their domes with salt.
"We always have our salt domes filled before the winter hits, we're always prepared for that," says Matt Deitchley, INDOT LaPorte District spokesperson.
With the 500 hundred tons coming in, the dome in LaPorte is full, like many others across the state. Preparation's been going on for months and now Deitchley says it's time for drivers to start preparing for winter conditions.
"When you see the plows on the roads, it's a dangerous situation for both them and you."
Which is why Deitchley says there's a few rules to follow on wintry roads. "Remember those plows will be driving 35-40 miles per hour, so a lot slower than people want to go sometimes."
He says pass carefully and if you HAVE to follow a plow truck, stay back about four car lengths. "A good rule of thumb, if you're getting hit by salt you're following too close."
"Keep distance and move over and give us a break. Sometimes we do things that are unexpected," says David Leslie, a plow truck driver.
Leslie has been driving plows for 24 years and he says there are things every driver dreads.
"The snowstorms where you can't see or ice that creeps in through the night, unexpected things like that." No matter how much snow we get this season, he says watch out for plows.
"We're out there for your protection, we want to get back in, home and safe just like you do," says Leslie.
People we talked to are already anticipating the weather.
"I want more snow, but driving in it is terrible," says Sarah Bohlin.
They're prepared to do what it takes to stay safe this season.
"I make sure I drive early and have to make sure I have all the snow off my car, just to make sure everyone in my vehicle is safe," says Samantha Danielson.
If you want to monitor weather conditions before you even step out of your house click here.
