OHIO — The Ohio Turnpike did inspection checks on their snow plows throughout the week as they prepare for winter.

It isn't even November yet, and some Ohioans — especially in far northeast Ohio — already got their first measurable amount of snow. This year, NOAA predicts winter for northern parts of the U.S., including Ohio, will be cooler than average with more precipitation than normal. 

Matt McMullen, the Eastern Division superintendent of Ohio Turnpike, walked Spectrum News 1 through the process of checking the plows. 

“We check everything from the operation of the salt conveyers, the liquid, ... the safety issues and we review all these, so when winter hits, we’ve got everything up to date and ready to go,” he said. 

The crew always has to be ready to go during the winter. McMullen said they are proud of the work that they do. 

“Our crews are extremely proud. They work hard to make sure they’re providing the safest passage possible on this road. They work a lot of long days, a lot of long hours and they really, like I said, take pride in making sure this road is as passable as possible,” he said.

Although it is the team’s job to make the roads safer, McMullen said people behind the wheel can help, too. 

“One thing that would always help them and if you want to be part of helping them is don’t crowd them. When it snows, slow down. Drive for the conditions and give them space to do what they need to do and everyone will get home safe,” he said.

They tested more than 100 snow plows at their eight different maintenance facilities throughout the state and are ready for the snow.

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation, there are 500 full-time employees across the region who are helping to prepare for the winter and checking equipment. ODOT said it's looking for about 200 seasonal workers.