Snow-Covered Fire Hydrants: A Hidden Danger

When fire hydrants are buried under snow, firefighters lose crucial minutes trying to access them. Those delays cost time, resources, and can mean the difference between saving a home or losing it entirely.

Homeowners and commercial property owners with hydrants on their property are responsible for maintaining a 3-foot clearance around them. This ensures firefighters can quickly connect supply lines and begin suppression efforts without unnecessary obstacles.

During a fire response, the first arriving engine secures the hydrant with a supply line before proceeding to the scene. The next engine connects to that hydrant and delivers water for suppression. If the hydrant is blocked, this process slows dramatically.

Neighborhoods should work together to keep hydrants clear. Lending a hand to shovel out hydrants near homes and businesses is a simple act that can save lives and property.

Minutes matter. In a fire, every second counts—and those cleared hydrants can make all the difference.