In an emergency every second counts – and when a fire hydrant is covered in snow, crews lose precious time trying to dig it out.
If a fire hydrant is located on your property, you are responsible for ensuring nothing obstructs access to the hydrant, as per Ottawa’s Water By-law.
The City encourages you to be a hydrant hero this winter and keep your local hydrant clear of snow. Clearing 1.5 metres around a hydrant maintains access for our firefighters and helps them keep you, your family and your community safe.
Contractors are reminded to not pile snow over or against hydrants when clearing pathways and driveways in the winter.
If you are unable to clear the hydrant on your property, please call 3-1-1.