Looking for hydrant heroes


By
January 13, 2023

In Northern Ontario there is one thing everyone can count on: snow. So far this winter, Sault Ste. Marie has received its share of snow and that means very specialized heroes are needed in town. 

Sault Ste. Marie has over 2,500 fire hydrants across the city. Just like a car parked in front of a hydrant, snow can block a firefighter’s access and cause delays in an emergency.

This is where your help is needed. The Sault Fire Services and PUC Services are looking for local Hydrant Heroes who can help keep snow clear 1.5 metres around their neighbourhood fire hydrant.

While PUC regularly removes snow from around hydrants, these heroes are very important in helping to monitor snow levels and shoveling snow away to prevent a buildup.
 

To show how you are a Hydrant Hero, take a picture of the hydrant in your neighbourhood and show everyone how you kept it clear of snow. Then, send the photo to Sault Fire or PUC Services on social media.
 

Children and youth who participate have a chance to win a weekly ‘Hydrant Hero’ gift pack as well as have their names entered into the grand prize draw, as a thank you for their support.
 

“In an emergency, snow-covered fire hydrants can cause firefighters to lose up to four minutes of precious time,” said Fire Chief Peter Johnson. “These are valuable minutes that are needed by firefighters to get the fire under control.”
 

“Safety is always PUC’s top priority,” said Robert Brewer, President and CEO of PUC Services Inc. “By becoming a hydrant hero, youth in our community are helping our crews make sure all of our neighbours stay safe if there is an emergency situation.”
 

To learn more about becoming a Hydrant Hero, visit Sault Fire Services or PUC Services on social media or their websites www.ssmpuc.com and https://saultstemarie.ca/Government/City-Departments/Fire-Services.aspx

NOTE: There are many ways to support this initiative. Sault Fire Services and PUC Services ask that community members take all safety precautions while participating and only participate if able, along with having proper adult supervision.