Rockford Fire Department urges you to keep fire hydrants clear, holiday safety

ROCKFORD, Ill. — As winter approaches, Rockford fire officials are urging residents to prepare their homes and neighborhoods for cold-weather hazards that can quickly turn dangerous.

After several years with below-average snowfall, the Rockford Fire Department says homeowners may be out of practice when it comes to winter fire safety, especially clearing access to fire hydrants.

The city has 5,900 hydrants , all of which play a critical role in securing a steady water supply during emergencies. Fire officials ask residents to keep a three-foot clearance around hydrants and maintain a visible path from the hydrant to the street. That task becomes essential during heavy snow, ice, or freezing rain.

To help, the department encourages residents to “Adopt-a-Hydrant” , which le