Anticipate the Winter

• If you live in a region where the snow starts early in the winter season, plan ahead. Waiting until the day before the storm does not leave you time to fix any issues that may arise after pulling your plow out of storage. Prepare your plow using these tips at the beginning of the winter season, right before it gets cold enough for snow.
  
  

Know your Plow

• Reading through your owner's manual will save you a lot of time and effort when preparing your snow plow for a storm. Educate yourself about the maintenance procedures and operational guidelines for your particular plow in addition to the steps listed here. The manual will also give you tips for plowing, as well as a list of parts and diagrams.
  
  

Prepare for Potential Problems

• Prepare for problems that may arise while you are plowing. Have a fire extinguisher, tool kit, tow strap, first aid kit, flares, fuses, flashlight, ice scraper, deicer, jumper cables, a shovel and a bag of salt on hand. In addition, keep spare parts for your plow in your vehicle. Have hydraulic fluid, hoses, an extra cutting edge and bolts ready to go.
  
  If a big storm is coming, make sure you get plenty of sleep before heading out to plow. Less traffic at night makes it easier to plow, but make sure you have enough lights for good visibility.
  
  

Preparing the Plow Vehicle

• Preparing your vehicle for the plow is just as important as preparing the plow. The winter months are hard on a vehicle, but without it, your plow is useless. Check your vehicle's tire pressure, engine belts, all fluids and keep your gas tank full. Check the battery because wet conditions and road salt can cause it to corrode. Make sure your windshield wipers and defrosters are in good working condition. Add ballast to the rear of your vehicle when your plow is installed on your vehicle. Your plow should have a ballast chart that will tell you how much weight to add to counter balance the weight of the plow. This will add traction for your vehicle. You also might want to add a flashing strobe light so others can see the plow more easily.
  
  

Preparing the Plow

• Check your plow often during the season. Make sure the bolts are staying tight and the hoses do not have leaks. Make sure the lights and turn signals are working properly. Inspect the cutting edge and plow shoes regularly. If you do not inspect these features, the parts will get worn over time and result in expensive repairs.