A snow covered fire hydrant can delay firefighters
Don't forget to clear the snow from your hydrant
By Firefighter Mark Robertson Sr.
February 8, 2010
After the massive snowstorm from the first weekend of February, and the pending one for February 9th and 10th, Willingboro Firefighters are asking everyone to take an extra moment to dig out any fire hydrants near their home. Hydrants not only get covered by falling snow, but with snow from plows and the shoveling of sidewalks. If firefighters have to clear out from around a hydrant in the event of a fire, it could cost valuable time getting water to the fire engine.
Fire hydrants should be cleared out at least two feet on all sides of the hydrant. This will leave plenty of room for firefighters to access all parts of the fire hydrant when connecting hoses during a fire. The few moments you spend clearing out a fire hydrant will be of great benefit to the fire department and everyone in the neighborhood.
Township ordinance requires homeowners to clear their sidewalks of snow within 24 hours of the end of a snow event. During the time you are clearing the snow from your property, please take a few extra moments to clear the snow from around any nearby fire hydrants. The small amount of time that residents take to clear the fire hydrants will provide valuable time to the fire department in the event of a major fire.
