North Central And Central CT Fire Officials: Remember To Clear Hydrants

CONNECTICUT — With all that snow on the ground in north central and central Connecticut, fire officials in both areas of the state are emphasizing hydrant as an import part of the cleanup efforts.

"We are prepped and ready to respond throughout the duration of this winter storm. But, please help us ensure that the hydrant in your neighborhood remains clear of snow with a 3-foot radius," Vernon fire officials said.

"Protecting the life and property of you, your family, your friends\ and your neighbors is very important," Tolland fire officials said.

That's right, 3 feet of snow shoveling on all sides.

"These simple steps make a real difference for emergency access and community safety," state officials said.

After a major snowstorm, clearing fire hydrants is not just a courtesy — it can be a matter of life and death, fire officials across the two regions said.

Access to hydrants must be maintained so firefighters can quickly connect hoses in an emergency. Delays of even seconds, officials warn, can slow firefighting operations and worsen outcomes for residents and first responders, officials said.

“Every hydrant that’s buried in snow is a potential delay in an emergency response,” said John Salvatore, a spokesperson for the National Fire Protection Association. “In a structure fire, time matters. Clear access allows crews to establish a water supply immediately.

Many local ordinances place responsibility on property owners or occupants to clear hydrants located on or adjacent to their property, though specific rules vary by municipality. In many communities, failure to clear hydrants can result in fines or municipal cleanup fees, according to city and town codes enforced by public works or fire departments.

Fire officials recommend using shovels rather than heavy equipment near hydrants to avoid damaging valves and caps. Residents are also encouraged to check nearby hydrants multiple times during prolonged storms, as plows and drifting snow can quickly rebury cleared areas.

Local fire departments typically conduct post-storm inspections and may clear critical hydrants themselves in high-risk or high-density areas, officials said, but staffing and safety constraints limit how many can be reached quickly.

“Community help is essential,” said Daniel McCarthy, the president of the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association. “When residents take responsibility for hydrants near their homes or businesses, it directly improves response times and firefighter safety.”