Buried Fire Hydrants in North Dakota Could Be a Deadly Mistake

Winter has already made its presence known in the Mon-Dak region, and for many, snow shoveling has become a regular chore. But while clearing driveways and sidewalks, don’t forget an often-overlooked task—shoveling around the fire hydrant near your home. This simple act could save your life and your neighbors’.

Winter Fire Risks and the Critical Role of Accessible Hydrants

Fires can spread alarmingly fast, and during winter, fire risks increase with the added use of candles, extra holiday lights, and heating equipment. Snow-covered hydrants slow down firefighters, potentially costing critical minutes in an emergency.

Don’t Let Snow Bury Hydrants: Every Minute Counts in a Fire Emergency

While we have already seen some snowfall this winter, most hydrants are not even covered...but they could be soon! A hydrant buried under snow or ice can take several minutes for crews to uncover, time that could otherwise be spent fighting a fire.

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Clear Hydrants Save Lives: A Simple Task with a Big Impact

Shoveling around the hydrant near your home ensures firefighters can access it quickly. Even just a minute saved by a cleared hydrant could make a significant difference in containing a fire and preventing loss of property or life.

Local fire departments often cannot clear all the hydrants themselves due to the sheer number across neighborhoods. That’s why residents are urged to take responsibility for the hydrants near their homes. A little effort now could prevent tragedy later.

So, the next time you’re out clearing snow, take an extra moment to ensure your neighborhood hydrant is accessible. It’s a small act of kindness that could have a lifesaving impact. Stay safe this winter and help your community by keeping fire hydrants clear and ready for action.

Your actions today might just be the difference in a critical moment.