Indiana preparing for snow with pre-winter inspections

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) said on Thursday that its crews have started to conduct pre-winter inspections to prepare for snow and ice this coming winter in the Fort Wayne area.

The officials expect all INDOT trucks in Fort Wayne will complete their inspections by the end of October. To conduct the inspections, INDOT officials must travel to all of the Fort Wayne District's units to evaluate ice and snow equipment.

For the inspections, the trucks must pass a series of bumper-to-bumper inspections and examinations. The officials specifically look for any mechanical defects that can be repaired. Particular attention is given to the engine, steering, and brakes. If there are concerns and problems, INDOT mechanics will solve these before the first snow fall or ice.

These proactive measures are one way that INDOT is planning ahead for the winter season. In addition to the inspections, plow drivers must participate in required ice and snow training every year. Many of these drivers are already familiar with the snow routes that they will cover for the winter.

INDOT Fort Wayne District covers 140 snow routes in 17 counties, including 525 lane miles of interstate, 4,799 miles of roadway and 742 state bridges.