We were driving around Fort Atkinson the other day and couldn’t help but notice the large number of fire hydrants buried in snow.
It wasn’t like the white stuff just had fallen, either. It was in between snowstorms and the sidewalks and driveways had been cleared.
Yet, corner after corner, hydrants and orange boxes of sand for sprinkling on icy sidewalks peeked out, some obviously never having been shoveled at all this winter and others having been enveloped in snow by passing plow trucks.
So we figured it’s time to remind folks about snow-removal protocol.
No matter where you live, you are responsible for removing the snow that has accumulated on the sidewalk within 24 hours after the snowfall stops. If ice has formed and cannot be removed, then the owner must keep it sprinkled with sand or salt so it will not pose a hazard to pedestrians.
Failure to do so could mean having to pay the public works crews for clearing the walks, not to mention hefty fines (http://www.fortatkinsonwi.net/departments/snow_and_ice_removal.php).
Moreover, owners of property on corners — or their neighbors, if necessary — should take it upon themselves to clear the sidewalks leading up to the crosswalks. Those that have ramps for wheelchairs must be cleared particularly wide.
And everyone, both urban and rural, who has a fire hydrant, curbside mailbox or utility meter must not forget to shovel the area around it to allow firefighters, postal carriers and meter readers to have easy access to connect to a hydrant, check utility usage or make a delivery.
All too often, delivery persons are forced to stop in the middle of the roadway, posing a danger to not only themselves, but other motorists, as well.
And in the case of a blaze, firefighters having to take time to clear a path to a hydrant can be the difference between life and death, or at the very least, minor or major property damage.
Now, there are some additional things to remember. It is easier to remove snow immediately after it has fallen, before it becomes packed or turns to ice. Ice melters can help reduce risk of slips and falls, and are more effective than household items like sand or kitty litter.
And please do not forget that shoveling and snowblowing demand heavy physical exertion: The strain from the cold and labor might cause a heart attack, and sweating from overexertion can lead to chill and hypothermia. But if you must shovel, remember to take it slowly, and do it carefully. Lift small amounts, especially when removing heavy snow, slush or ice.
The moral of this story? Do your civic duty by taking a few extra minutes to clear snow from crosswalks, hydrants, utility meters, mailboxes and sand containers on and near your property. You, as well as your very appreciative neighbors and visitors, will be glad you did.
Fort Atkinson-area residents are encouraged to clear snow from around fire hydrants, utility meters and rural mailboxes to ensure fast and safe service. Pictured is the fire hydrant at the corner of East and Zida street, which was shoveled following a recent snowstorm.
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