Should I worry when fire hydrants are buried under the snow?

During winter months when the snow and ice piles high, Shaker’s 1,500 fire hydrants often are buried. If you are able, please clear snow from around hydrants and avoid shoveling snow on top of them so that fire crews can quickly gain access during an emergency.

However, if fire hydrants are buried in snow and you are unable to dig them out, don’t worry! The Shaker Heights Fire Department has detailed maps indicating the specific locations of all hydrants. In the event of a fire where a hydrant is not immediately accessible, each truck is equipped with 700 gallons of water, enough to fight a fire for approximately 10 minutes, while crews simultaneously dig out the closest hydrant.

Show All Answers

1. What are the regulations for outdoor burning, including a fire pit?
2. What is hydrant flushing and what do I need to know?
3. Should I worry when fire hydrants are buried under the snow?
4. How do I report a leaking or damaged fire hydrant?
5. Why is my fire hydrant not painted?
6. What kind of smoke detector/smoke alarm do I need?
7. Where should I put smoke detectors/smoke alarms?
8. Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
9. Where should I put a carbon monoxide detector?
10. Can the department help install my child's car seat?
11. How do I dispose of a fire extinguisher?
12. How do I dispose of a smoke detector?
13. How do I get a fire report?
14. How do I get an EMS report?
15. How do I schedule a station tour?
16. Do I need a permit for a temporary outdoor tent?
17. Where can I get assistance in extreme weather? Is there a cooling or warming center?