PORTAGE, MI – The subzero temperatures, high winds and snowfall have closed schools, government offices and libraries. But the winter elements can’t stop fires.
That’s why the Portage Department of Public Safety is asking all residents, businesses and property managers to adopt a fire hydrant and keep it cleared of snow.
Larry Moore, Portage fire marshal, said in a press release Monday that with the significant amount of snowfall over the past several days, many fire hydrants in the area are not visible or accessible.
Anyone with a fire hydrant on or near your property is asked to help the fire department by removing snow accumulation so that firefighters can access them in case of a fire.
As a further precaution, Moore said that all emergency exits from residences and businesses should be cleared of snow and ice accumulation. Ice and snow drifts can block doors, making it difficult to escape if a fire or other emergency occurs.
For more information, contact the Portage Department of Public Safety – Fire Division at 269-329-4487. While most Portage government offices are closed today because of the weather, public safety crews are at work.