JACKSON, Wyo. — It may not look like it, but even during the snowy winter there’s a need to keep hydrants visible and accessible in preparation for fires.
The rising crisis of wildland fires in summer months is at the forefront of most people’s minds, but during winter the risk of house fires can be high and demands attention.
House fires can be caused by a number of things including chimney fires, barbecues and electric fires.
One of the most important ways community members can protect themselves and their homes during the winter is making sure all street fire hydrants are cleared for the Jackson Hole Fire/EMS team. The time it could take a crew to dig out a hydrant is critical time that needs to be spent actually putting out the flames.
According to Austin Sessions, president of the local firefighter union that includes the paid 28 members of the department, the heavy snow this year covered a large number of fire hydrants.
“Driving around we noticed a lot that were buried,” Sessions said.
In addition to digging out hydrants, Sessions recommends keeping driveways plowed wide enough for emergency vehicles to fit and keeping addresses clear so that first responders can recognize a house immediately.
To learn more about the new Jackson Hole Fire/EMS Foundation, click here.
