EDITOR:

In an emergency, every second counts. Fire hydrants that are blocked, concealed, or difficult to access due to snow or ice will impede emergency fire response. Fire engines carry a limited amount of water, so one of the first tasks upon arriving at a fire scene is to locate a water supply from the nearest fire hydrant. Hydrants covered in snow can be difficult to locate, and uncovering them can waste valuable time needed when fighting the fire. Keeping them clear can mean easier access to water and more time doing what really matters, fighting the fire.

Fire departments recommend clearing a 3-foot area around the hydrant. Help keep your home or business safe from winter’s fire hazards by ensuring your hydrants are clear and readily available in an emergency. It can mean the difference between saving a structure and its inhabitants and not doing so.

The life and property your save may be your own.

Don Kopacz

Delta County American Red Cross Disaster Team