NEVADA – Residents in the Tahoe area are being requested to clear snow from fire hydrants in the aftermath of recent storms.

Residents are advised to clear a three-foot radius around the hydrant and the road to allow firemen access.

Each winter, the number of structure fires increases due to wood stoves and faulty maintenance, among other things.

“As roads are cleaned during and after winter storms, fire hydrants become mistakenly covered with snow,” North Tahoe Fire Protection District Fire Marshal John James explained. “Between emergency responses, Fire District staff work on clearing fire hydrants, but due of the increase in call traffic that generally occurs during storm events, we need aid with this task. Community members who adopt the nearest hydrant to their home or business and keep it clear of snow and debris contribute to make our community safer.”

If the nearest hydrant is buried, or if you don’t know where one is, contact the local fire department.

Credits: KOOLOTV