With the recent snowfall and presumably more to come the Greenfield Fire Department would like to remind everyone and encourage you to "Adopt a Hydrant."

As we're all aware winter weather in Wisconsin can be very "unpredictable" for those of us who are not on vacation somewhere warm. One of the most problematic conditions is snowfall. At times the amount of snow we receive is minimal. Other times it can be significant. Winter can bring "unpredictable" emergencies that the Greenfield Fire Department must respond to. Medical calls, fire alarms and car accidents alone keep the Greenfield Fire Department busy.  However, this time of year, fire is the greatest concern. With heating and fireplaces being used throughout the city, fires become more common. 

When the Greenfield Fire Department responds to a report of a fire, the responding crews "spot" hydrants as they approach the scene. Finding the closest fire hydrant and being able to connect fire hose is critical during an actual fire. Fire hydrants supply the water necessary to extinguish fires in homes. If fire hydrants cannot be located and accessed for use, a delay in putting out the fire is possible. A fire doubles in size every minute. The situation can have a catastrophic effect on a house and its occupants. We would like to ask everyone who lives in Greenfield to help with the "Adopt a Hydrant" program. There is no need to notify the City or Fire Department about the hydrant you have adopted as this is an informal volunteer program. This program is intended to assist the Greenfield Fire Department in locating and clearing the snow from the fire hydrants before they are needed in an emergency.

Clearing the snow from the hydrant in your yard or your neighbors' yard could be lifesaving. Snow should be removed at least 3 feet around each hydrant and to the street in order to make it visible and accessible for Firefighters to connect hoses. The few minutes it will take to shovel snow around a fire hydrant could truly make the difference between life and death. With all the fire hydrants in our city everyone's help is needed.

Remember: "If you love life...love safety!"

Battalion Chief James Mollet