Extreme winter events can wreak havoc on planned winter operations, budgets and public perception. This has caused many agencies to re- examine operational policies, community outreach programs, staffing procedures and budgeting processes, to name a few.

This program will detail how agencies in Washington DC, Denver CO and Seattle WA have dealt with major winter events and what they changed because of it.

They will discuss actions taken such as implementing new programs (anti-icing, pre-wetting, contracting etc.) and looking for best practices (new routes, using liquids, new equipment). Consideration will be given to such items as: how did the budget change, who implemented the change, how did staff react and how the public perceived the changes.

Much can be learned from how other agencies have dealt with these issues. Join us to compare your experiences and get some ideas for what your agency could do to prepare for the next tough winter.

After viewing this program, participants will be better able to:

• Plan contingencies for extraordinary winter events
• Correlate training needs so operators understand how to deal with emergency operations
• Communicate a positive message to the driving public
• Plan how to staff for extreme winter weather