Be a hydrant hero

posted on 2/7/2025

With recent snow and ice, and more storms on the way, you can help Dover Fire and Rescue firefighters by becoming a hydrant hero. It doesn’t take too long and may save a life or a home.

Crews from Dover Fire and Rescue and Community Services shovel out fire hydrants after each snowstorm to prepare them for an emergency. But with more than 1,250 city fire hydrants, this process takes considerable time.

During an emergency, time spent by firefighters searching for and clearing hydrants buried in deep snow, drifts, plowed snow, or covered in ice is precious time lost that could be spent saving a victim's life or extinguishing a spreading fire. A fire can double in size every 30 seconds, and it can take firefighters minutes to fully clear hydrants for use when every second is vital to a positive outcome.

Consider adopting a nearby fire hydrant to clear when it snows and be an unsung hydrant hero. Here are some hydrant-clearing essentials:

• Always wear highly visible clothing, such as a safety vest, to be seen by motorists.
• Clear at least 3 feet in all directions around the hydrant and shovel a path to the street.
• Clear any accumulated snow or ice from the hydrant by hand; hand tools could damage the hydrant.
• Pace yourself and be sure to take frequent breaks. If you experience shortness of breath or chest pain, stop immediately; call 911 or seek medical attention.
• If you observe any hydrant damage, such as water or ice coming from any opening, notify police dispatch at 603-742-4646.

For more information, contact Dover Fire and Rescue at 603-516-6018.