With increasing snow accumulation, the Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) would like to remind property owners about the importance of keeping fire hydrants clear of snow.

There are about 5,400 fire hydrants across the SVFD service area. Many are becoming increasingly difficult to locate as snow levels rise. Buried fire hydrants create a real hazard for nearby homes and businesses in the event of a fire emergency.

“It is the responsibility of the property owner to clear snow around fire hydrants” explained Fire Marshal Greg Rogers. “This applies to homeowners, businesses and property managers. We are asking that if there is a fire hydrant near your home or business, please do your part to keep it accessible this winter.”

Specific actions property owners should take are:

• Remove any snow and ice from the hydrant
• Clear a wide enough perimeter around the hydrant for firefighters to work (about 3 feet)
• Clear a path from the hydrant to the street

Private snow plowing companies that block or bury a fire hydrant could be held responsible for the delay in accessing the hydrant in the event of a fire. Failure to keep fire hydrants readily accessible could result in a misdemeanor.