Barrie calls on residents to help dig out city’s more than 4,000 fire hydrants

Fire hydrants should be cleared of all snow and ice for access in an emergency. (CTV News/Steve Mansbridge)

The City of Barrie is calling on its residents to help dig out snow-covered fire hydrants following significant snowfall in recent weeks.

There are more than 4,000 fire hydrants across the city, which need to have a clearing of one metre (three feet) all the way around with a clear path to the street. The City says snow-covered hydrants could prove disasterous in an emergency.

“Fire trucks carry a finite amount of water, so one of the responders’ first tasks upon arrival is locating a water supply from the nearest hydrant,” the City states. “Hydrants covered in snow can be difficult to locate and uncovering them can waste valuable time needed during a fire fight.”

Residents are asked to clear hydrants on or near their properties of snow and ice.

“Although there are no rules concerning who should clear hydrants, it’s generally considered the responsibility of the residents occupying property near a hydrant,” the City adds. “If you see a hydrant that’s not cleared of snow, please do the neighbourly thing and dig it out.”

Anyone not physically able to remove snow from around a hydrant on or near their property can contact Water Operations at 705-792-7920 or via email.