MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With the recent snowfall in Milwaukee being a fresh reminder that the snowy season has officially arrived, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Wisconsin County Highway Association are celebrating Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day.

Gov. Tony Evers officially declared Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day on Monday, Nov. 27, setting aside a day to acknowledge the vital work of snowplow operators in maintaining safe roadways during winter.

In partnership with the WCHA, WisDOT urges drivers to be mindful and give snowplows the necessary space to operate effectively.

They supplied key tips for motorists to navigate safely during winter in a Monday press release. These include checking road conditions on 511wi.gov before setting out, always wearing seat belts and maintaining a substantial distance from snowplows. Motorists are also advised to adjust speeds according to road conditions while staying at least 200 feet behind operating snowplows.

Caution is also recommended when overtaking a snowplow, considering the potentially challenging road conditions ahead.

WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson offered words of celebration of snowplow drivers, saying, "We applaud them for their dedication to safety and service, and also ask that drivers do their part to keep our roadways safe. Eliminate distractions when driving, always give snowplows room to work and, when possible, avoid travel during major storms."