FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE04-07
january
29, 2004
Contact:
Charles G. Sturcken
(718) 595-6600
Reminder:
Snow-Blocked Fire Hydrants Can Hamper Fire Fighting
During this period of extreme cold and heavy snow storms, Commissioner
Christopher O. Ward of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection
(DEP) is requesting that New Yorkers assist City workers by removing snow
from hydrants in front of their homes.
“When you sweep the snow from sidewalks in front of your homes,”
said Commissioner Ward, “please don’t block the hydrant .
Also, if you notice that a fire hydrant is snowed under, please shovel
the snow aside. The severe weather we’ve experienced in the past
several weeks has put a strain on City workers who are deployed to critical
situations, such as frozen pipes, snow blocked streets and local fires.
We greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide.”
If you notice a fire hydrant in your neighborhood is leaking or broken,
please call the City’s 24-hour Citizens Service Hot Line at 311.