Winter is coming: Why Clearing Your Fire Hydrant Matters

When seconds count, every action you take to help firefighters can make a huge difference. One simple way you can support the Petersburg Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD) is by ensuring the fire hydrant near your home is clear and accessible—especially during winter. It’s a small effort that could save precious time during an emergency.

Why Is a Clear Fire Hydrant So Important?

Imagine this: it’s the middle of the night, and a fire breaks out at your house or a neighbor’s. The PVFD responds quickly, but when they arrive, they find the fire hydrant buried under snow or hidden behind overgrown plants. Valuable time is spent clearing the area before they can connect their hoses and start fighting the fire.

That delay can be the difference between a minor incident and a devastating loss. By keeping your local hydrant visible and accessible, you’re giving PVFD the best chance to act fast when it matters most.

How to Keep Your Fire Hydrant Clear

Here’s how you can help:

1. Shovel Around the Hydrant

   • In snowy weather, clear at least three feet of space around the hydrant so firefighters can easily access it.

   • Make a path from the hydrant to the street for quick hose connection.

2. Remove Obstacles

   • Trim any bushes, trees, or plants that may block the hydrant from view or access.

   • Keep the area free of debris, trash, or parked vehicles.

3. Keep It Visible

   • If your hydrant tends to get buried in snowdrifts, consider marking it with a tall flag or stake to make it easier to spot.

4. Check Regularly

   • After heavy snowfalls, make it part of your routine to clear the hydrant.

   • During warmer months, ensure the area stays free of overgrowth or obstructions.

A Simple Task with a Big Impact

Clearing your hydrant might take just a few minutes, but it can save precious time in an emergency. It’s an easy way to show your support for PVFD and help protect your home and neighbors.

Remember, firefighters volunteer their time and energy to keep Petersburg safe. By doing your part to keep fire hydrants accessible, you’re making their job just a little easier—and your community a lot safer.

A Community Effort

If everyone in Petersburg makes a habit of maintaining the hydrants near their homes, we can work together to create a safer environment for all. This small act of service is a powerful way to contribute to the well-being of your neighborhood.

Take a moment today to check on your hydrant. A few minutes of effort could make all the difference when seconds count.