Germantown, WI – As winter storms continue across southeastern Wisconsin, the Village of Germantown Fire Department is urging residents to help keep fire hydrants clear of snow to prevent dangerous delays during emergencies.
According to the department, volunteers are encouraged to “adopt a hydrant” near their home and take responsibility for clearing it after each snowfall. Fire officials say even a short delay in locating or accessing a hydrant during a fire can significantly slow suppression efforts, increasing the risk of injury and property damage.
Residents are asked to shovel a three-foot clearance around their nearest hydrant to give firefighters enough room to connect equipment quickly. The department also encourages neighbors to assist elderly residents or those with medical conditions who may be unable to clear hydrants on their own.
Water remains the primary tool firefighters rely on to control and extinguish structure fires, officials said. Snow-covered hydrants can blend into snowbanks or remain hidden long enough to cost crews critical time during an emergency response.
The Adopt-A-Hydrant effort is an informal community initiative, meaning residents do not need to notify the fire department if they choose to participate. The Germantown Water and Public Works Departments maintain and repair hydrants, and residents are asked not to paint or alter hydrants in any way.
Fire officials thanked the community for helping keep hydrants accessible throughout the winter, noting that simple acts like shoveling can directly improve safety for entire neighborhoods.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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