Keeping Fire Hydrants Free of Snow Can Help Save Lives
With the coldest time of year ahead of us, heavy snowfall can hit Long Island at any time. This is why the Hicksville Water District (HWD) encourages residents to “adopt a hydrant” this winter by keeping fire hydrants near their homes free of excess snow. Keeping hydrants free of snow, ice or any other winter debris can save first responders valuable time for their response to an emergency situation.
“Our first responders provide an absolutely crucial service to our community, and it is important that the Hicksville community helps them to ensure our safety,” said HWD Chairman Karl Schweitzer. “Clearing fire hydrants of excess snow can save responders crucial time when addressing a fire situation in our neighborhood. This simple act can go a long way toward saving lives and we encourage residents to participate throughout the rest of the winter season.”
Adopting a hydrant is simple. All one needs to do is locate a fire hydrant near their homes and clear roughly three feet of snow around it in the event of heavy snowfall. This prevents firefighters and other emergency responders from doing so when they need to attach a hose to the hydrant when responding to a fire. The time that adopting a hydrant saves during these situations can be invaluable in a life-or-death scenario.
The HWD also asks its residents to consider assisting those in the community who are unable to clear their own fire hydrants without assistance. These can be neighbors, friends or even family members who need your help to prepare in case of an emergency. Residents who have left their homes for the winter season are asked to notify a neighbor so they can ensure the hydrant gets cleared.
If you have any further questions, please contact the Hicksville Water District at 516-931-0184.
