Plow operators dealing with aggressive behaviours from public, according to police

A snowplow makes its way along a road in Orillia. (Tom Stefanac/CP24)

Dufferin OPP is addressing concerns from residents and plow operators when it comes to carrying out winter maintenance across the region.

During meetings between police and municipal plow operators, the clear message from those performing snow operations was frustration dealing with unsafe and aggressive behaviours while on the job.

Police said crews brought up instances of vehicles swerving toward snowplows, residents shouting or making threatening gestures, and throwing objects at plows.

There has been an increase in residents pushing snow into the roads, creating large piles of snow at the side of the road. These “snow mountains” and putting snow from a property onto the roads are illegal.

These issues have been raised across several communities, according to police.

OPP is reminding the public of ways to support efficient winter operations so that operators, motorists and pedestrians remain safe.

Police said one of those ways is to respect road closures and not drive on a road that has a road-closed sign.

Motorists are advised to give plows lots of space, which includes not passing, crowding or driving aggressively near them, according to authorities.

Vehicles should avoid parking on the streets during significant weather events.

Pushing snow from one’s property onto the road is not only illegal but dangerous, and police ask residents to keep their snow to themselves.

Finally, throwing objects at plows and operators is dangerous and people could be criminally charged for it, police said.

For any concerns involving snow removal operations, people are being asked to contact the municipality, as plow operators do not schedule their routes or workdays.