People shout, throw objects at snowplows in this Ontario community

An Ontario community is trying to address “aggressive behaviours” lobbed at snowplow operators this winter.

The Ontario Provincial Police said they have heard concerns from plow operators in Dufferin County this winter. Dufferin County, just north of Caledon, includes Orangeville and Shelburne.

Police officers met with plow operators on Jan. 22 to discuss “unsafe and aggressive behaviours from some members of the public while crews are simply trying to do their jobs,” the OPP said.

Examples raised included vehicles swerving toward snowplows, residents shouting or making threatening gestures, throwing objects at plows, and homeowners pushing snow directly across roads or creating large roadside piles, police said.

“While it may seem harmless, depositing snow back onto the roadway and engaging in aggressive behaviour can create hazardous conditions for motorists, slow plow operations, and make it more difficult for operators to keep roads clear and safe,” the OPP said.

Police said operators have reported unsafe and aggressive behaviour from some drivers and residents during snow removal operations in several communities. These actions put operators and all road users at risk, the OPP added.

The OPP asked residents to support safe winter operations, including respecting road closures and giving plows plenty of space as they are heavy vehicles with limited maneuverability.

Throwing objects at plows or operators may result in criminal charges.

Pushing snow across or onto the road, or creating large roadside piles, is unsafe and, in many areas, an offence under the Highway Traffic Act. These piles reduce visibility and obstruct plowing.

Police asked drivers to remove cars from the street as parked vehicles slow down plowing efforts and create hazards for everyone.

Residents should direct concerns with plowing operations to their municipality, as operators do not control their routes or schedules.

This is not the first time plow drivers have been the subject of aggression.

In 2023, an Oshawa man was charged in connection with an assault involving a snowplow operator. And also in 2023, several Mississauga snowplow drivers quit their jobs after being harassed by angry, violent residents who smashed their vehicles and prevented them from clearing some streets.

Lead photo: Town of Orangeville