Winter Safety

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Keeping Eaton County Roads Safe in the Winter

Snow and Ice Control are a Priority

Safe driving conditions during the winter months are a top priority for the Eaton County Road Commission. In all, ECRC is responsible for snow and ice control on over 1,150 miles of county roads and streets. ECRC meets winter's challenge and implements effective snow and ice removal plans by monitoring weather forecasts and reporting services.

To report a winter road condition problem, please call the ECRC at 517-543-1630 or 1-877-883-2866. For questions about snow removal in incorporated cities or villages, contact those municipalities. For questions regarding state-owned highways ("M" designation) or federal highways ("I" or "U.S." designation), please contact the Michigan Department of Transportation at 517-322-3300.

Plows Take to the Streets

Salting or sanding operations begin when slippery conditions exist or snow levels have reached about two inches on most major roads. If snow continues or is predicted, snow removal crews are ready to move. Special attention is paid to bridge surfaces because they tend to freeze more rapidly than other surfaces.

When there is nighttime snowfall, crews are on the job by 4 a.m., so roads are ready for morning rush hour traffic. If needed special night crews will work with the Eaton County Sheriff's Department to handle emergency situations. ECRC, the Eaton County Central Dispatch Center and the sheriff's department cooperate year-round to make sure road conditions are safe for motorists. The EC Central Dispatch handles ECRC emergency calls and alerts crews to trouble

Crews Tackle Major Roads First

The ECRC snow route system is a special network of heavily traveled roads within the county and includes more then 300 miles of roads. The snow route system receives primary attention when winter weather affects driving conditions. The goal, in concentrating our efforts, is to provide the maximum level of service to the most people.

Once the snow routes are clear, crews move on to the lesser traveled roads. Typically, subdivision streets and gravel roads are the last to be cleared. Long-lasting storms can delay trucks from getting to subdivision streets for several days.

Salt and Sand Decrease Ice, Increase Traction

Salt is used on the snow route system to rapidly provide wet roads. It is moderately applied without unacceptable risk to the motoring public. To avoid excessive use of salt, ECRC uses a salt-sand mix on outside urban areas. This mixture -- 50 percent salt and 50 percent sand -- is used first on hills, intersections and curves.

The salt keeps the sand from freezing while the sand provides traction for vehicles. When the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, liquid calcium is added to both salt and the salt-sand mix. This additive hastens the melting action slowed by the low temperature.