When should locomotives precede movement on tracks affected by snow and ice?

Locomotives should precede movement on tracks affected by snow and ice before cars can be ridden into those tracks to ensure safety and operational efficiency. This practice allows the locomotives to assess the conditions of the tracks, helping to identify any potential hazards such as ice accumulation or snow drifts that could impede the movement of rail cars. By traveling ahead, the locomotives can also help break the ice or compact the snow, making it safer for the subsequent movement of rail cars.

In adverse weather conditions, such as snowy or icy tracks, the primary concern is safety. Having the locomotives lead the movement acts as a precautionary measure to reduce risk and ensure that the tracks are navigable, thereby protecting the crew and the equipment. It's important to prioritize safe operation procedures, especially in challenging environmental conditions.