Clear snow from fire hydrants in Brampton to help firefighters keep communtie safe

Brampton | Caledon | Latest News |

Published January 26, 2023 at 9:46 am

A Brampton resident clears snow from a fire hydrant in Brampon following a heavy snowfall. (Photo courtesy of Brampton Fire and Emergency Services).

Firefighters in Brampton are reminding residents to keep fire hydrants clear while shoveling and cleaning snow in case of an emergency.

Brampton was hit with nearly 15 cm of snow on Wednesday, leaving road crews and residents to clean up after a significant winter storm. But Brampton Fire and Emergency Services (BFES) wants Brampton residents to be mindful of fire hydrants when doing snow removal.

BFES says to keep fire hydrants on or near your property clear and unobstructed throughout the winter and all year round to ensure firefighters have quick and easy access in an emergency.

Avoid piling snow on top or near a fire hydrant and keep at least 1m between the hydrant and other items on your property, such as trees and shrubs. And make sure to park any vehicles at least 3m away from the hydrant so emergency services can reach it.

Brampton Fire and Emergency Services have also been going door-to-door in Brampton communities to remind and educate residents about properly working smoke alarms.

Here are some tips to make sure your smoke alarms are in working order:

  • Replace batteries regularly. Change your batteries when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.
  • If you think your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, replace it. Smoke alarms don’t last forever. Check the manufacturer’s date to find out when they expire.
  • Clean your smoke alarms regularly. Excessive dust can affect the alarm. Vacuum all alarms every six months and test your alarms when finished.
    Plan your escape. Make sure that everyone in your household is aware of the alarms, their sound, and what to do next.
  • Create an escape plan and practice it with the entire household.
  • Renting a property? Have a conversation with your landlord about fire safety and your responsibilities.

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