Remember to clear around hydrants, furnace vents, Waukesha chief says
Follow the latest news and notes of the latest big snowstorm to hit southeastern Wisconsin.
Waukesha — Once you’ve moved the mountains from your driveways and sidewalks, don’t forget to clear out the fire hydrants near your house, reminds Waukesha Fire Department Batallian Chief Joe Hoffman.
Some may be buried beneath drifts and deposits from snow plows.
“It is of utmost importance that snow is cleared from all hydrants making them accessible to the fire department in the case of an emergency,” he said.
The department recommends homeowners clear a four-foot diameter space, from street to sidewalk, around the hydrants. Eventually, water utility crews or firefighters will clear hydrants still buried when they see them, but Hoffman said the immediate concern is in the next few days.
Hoffman also warned residents to check their fresh air intakes for furnaces and hot water heaters. The department had three calls Wednesday morning from residents smelling natural gas because of plugged intakes, but none required medical care.
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