Snow and Hydrants

I am sure the issue of fire hydrants being buried by snow is not an issue throughout the country but I just wanted to take a minute to bring up the fact that in winter time we find many hydrants to be buried by snow. This issue should not only concern fire departments but also any homeowner that might have a hydrant located near their home. With the likelihood of a heavy snow fall today in Massachusetts and more to come I think it only appropriate to note that it wouldn't hurt, and possibly even help, if you knew of a hydrant that was buried in snow near your home that you take a minute to dig it out. In many towns this may be done by the fire, highway or water dept. but given the workload they will be facing with significant snow storms lets take a minute to safely attempt to dig out any hydrants that might be buried. Your public safety professionals will surely be grateful you did.

Ken Holland

Comments

[Michael OBrian]

I love the adopt a hydrant program where the homeowner takes on that responsibility and make sure it is clear of snow, weeds, grass, etc.
We have about 15" on the ground in various parts of Michigan and that covers many of the hydrants around!

[Ken Holland]

That is a great program. I wish more communities were more supportive of it. I cant tell you how many hydrant markers I see where the hydrant is not dug out. It just might be a hard sell to the community, but not when they are in need of the water that comes from the hydrant... Right?