Latest news, weather, high school sports for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

MUNISING -- Kids in the U.P. are no strangers to winter weather, and one of their favorite activities is playing in the snow.  That's why safety is essential, especially when it comes to snow plows.

"We want them to have fun in the winter, but we want them to be safe," said Harry Lindquist, an equipment operator at the Alger County Road Commission.

Lindquist has plowed for the road commission for over 30 years, and one of the highlights of his job is teaching kids about safety--hands on.  On Tuesday, he brought his snow plow to Munising's Mather Elementary School.

"For Yooper kids, this is quite the niche," said first grade teacher, Mike McCollum.  "This is a great program for them because they need to be educated in how to be safe around snow plows and how to stay safe in the winter."

Some safety tips:  don't build snow forts close to the road, as plowers may not see you in a snow bank.  Also, wear coats equipped with reflectors, and most importantly, stay as far away as possible since plows are heavy and can lose control easily.  They can also toss snow and other material about 100 feet.

While snow plows boast a lot of high-tech equipment, they are missing something very simple:  a rear view mirror, something that can really hinder a driver's visibility.

"People think that you sit high, you can see better then they can, but you really don't," Lindquist said.  "We have a mirror, but you can't see."

After the presentation, Lindquist's lesson seemed to sink in.

"I learned that you have to stay away from it so you don't get hit," said first grader Alex Vanzandt.

"Don't build a snow fort by the street," said first grader Brooklyn Michelin.

Lindquist and his snow plow will visit Deerton Schools Wednesday and then Superior Central in December.