MASON CITY, IA--
Steve Haxton is one of those lucky people who actually enjoys his job.“I thoroughly enjoy the winters as far as plowing the snow,” said the Department of Transportation plow operator.That's a good thing, because that's all he's doing these days. “About three days, 12 on, 12 off,” said Haxton, describing his current work schedule. “Yeah it does get tiring.”
When the snow comes down, that's Haxton's--and other plow operators---cue to head to work--no matter what time of the day or night. “We started at three this morning,” said Mike Lowe, a plow operator for Mason City.
Our area operators are now on day three of a winter road trip of sorts. Only the view isn't changing. “Most of the guys are doing well,” said Lowe.
However, it's tough fighting fatigue when faced with a perpetually grueling schedule.“Everybody pretty much has their own routine,” said Lowe.“Coffee, lots of coffee, get out of the truck once in a while, walk around the truck,” said Haxton. “Run with the windows down, run a little cool air,” said Lowe. “Usually we'll stop at a gas station every couple hours if we can,” said Haxton.
But the secret to snow shoveling stamina? Both drivers say it's sleep--when they can get it. “I'll be going home at noon today and I'll probably blow my drive way out and then go to bed,” said Haxton.
