You can also help firefighters save lives, homes, and businesses by shoveling around fire hydrants near your property after it snows. If snow is covering a hydrant, firefighters can lose valuable time trying to find the hydrant and clear it while a fire spreads.

Somerville fire crews are out clearing snow from around hydrants, but it’s a big city, so you can help too. If you are able, just shovel a path at least 3 feet in all directions around the hydrant to give firefighters space to connect a hose. It is also helpful to shovel a path from the street or a driveway to the hydrant.

Done clearing your hydrant? Consider helping neighbors who are elderly, have a medical condition, or have an access or functional need keep their hydrants clear too. Thank you!