We have some incredible Hydrant Heroes in Ottawa and seven-year-old Pascal is one of them. Pascal and his family have been working hard this winter to clear snow and ice from two fire hydrants near their home. “It’s like you are a firefighter” says Pascal. “It’s good for the city, to protect from fires and to help my community”.
Pascal started volunteering as a Hydrant Hero for his first time this winter. He enjoys spending time with his family and taking responsibility for something that belongs to all of us. Their act of kindness has inspired others too. “In our case, someone else, cleared a hydrant across the street after seeing us do ours,” he remarks
In an emergency situation, snow-covered fire hydrants can cause firefighters to lose up to four
minutes of precious time. By clearing a half-metre radius, or roughly 18 inches, around a hydrant, you can help keep your family and community safe.
Pascal’s advice for others who are thinking of becoming a Hydrant Hero:
- Get a good shovel
- It’s better with help from a friend
- Ask a parent to supervise before going into the street
- Challenge your friends to do the same thing in their neighbourhood
- Take care and responsibility of your neighbourhood hydrant and make sure it is always cleared.
The City maintains over 23,000 fire hydrants, and while our crews work diligently to keep them operational, help from the community is invaluable. A huge thank you to Pascal and his family, as well as all the other Hydrant Heroes across the city.
We invite everyone, especially children and youth, to become Hydrant Heroes. Participants will receive an electronic Hydrant Hero certificate, and youth volunteers can earn community involvement hours. Visit ottawa.ca/HydrantHero to learn more.
It is the responsibility of the property owner to keep fire hydrants on their property clear of snow under the Water By-law (No. 2019-74). If you are unable to clear the hydrant on your property, please call 3-1-1.
