Tow truck drivers, linemen gear up to brave freeze
BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – With a freeze expected to take place within the next few days, tow truck drivers are gearing up for winter rescues.
Stephen Monk has been a tow truck driver for 16 years and has owned Blacktop Towing in Bryan for two years. According to him, winter weather makes his job much more challenging.
“We have to drive much slower to get to you, so we don’t end up having to be rescued as well,” he said.
Driving slower helps keep Monk safer while doing his job. During freezes, he said nearly every aspect becomes a safety concern. He estimated that his truck weighs around two to three times more than an average vehicle, and that weight goes up substantially when he’s picked up a car. The weight makes sliding on the road much more likely.
Whether it’s heading out to rescue someone or dropping them off, the weight of his truck makes it harder to maneuver during a freeze.
“The heavier the vehicle, it seems like the easier it slides, so we have to drive extra careful just to make sure that we’re not one of those that’s out there stuck on the side of the road,” he said.
When the sun goes down, their call volume is expected to go up. Monk said he believes it’s because of the lower visibility on the roads.
Tow truck drivers aren’t the only people braving the freeze to help others. If the power goes out in Bryan, BTU calls their lineman into action. Public information officer Meagan Brown said they make sure to add extra standby crews to meet increased demand.
Staying safe during freezes is a major priority, but winter weather still poses a risk.
“Ice becomes a problem, not only navigating roads, but it’s also a problem for electric lines. Ice piled up can cause outages and damage to the system,” Brown said.
Brown added that the linemen are ready to go no matter the outside conditions.
“They’re out there in cold weather, hot weather, rain, snow, sleet. It doesn’t matter,” she said.
