Residents Asked to 'Adopt a Hydrant'

With the first real storm of winter still not hitting the township, the Howell Fire Bureau is asking residents to help them when the big winter storms do arrive. 

As part of that preparation effort they are holding an "Adopt-A-Hydrant" program. "The winter months bring a special concern to the Howell Township Fire Service," Chief Bob Hotmar said in a letter about the program. "Winter storms and plowing operations can often hide the hydrants under a mountain of snow making them impossible to find quickly. In the event of a fire, firefighters have to locate and shovel out hydrants before hooking them up."

While there are parts of the town that do not have hydrants, for those streets that do have them, keeping them clear during storms can prove an invaluable effort. Hotmar said fire fighters need a three-foot path from the street to the hydrant and a three-foot buffer around it to keep it immediately available. 

Any hydrants that are damaged or leaking should be reported to the Howell Police Dispatch at 732-938-411. Residents, he said, should not paint the hydrants, try to fix or alter the hydrants or mark the curb or street in any way. 

Residents who are able to help with this effort are encouraged to fill out the attached form and return it to the Fire Bureau. In addition to snow, Hotmar said it is important to keep hydrants clear of overgrowth like grass and weeds during the rest of the year. 

Those who take part will receive a special certificate honoring their contribution. Hotmar said community groups like the Boy Scouts are encouraged to adopt one or more hydrants if they are interested. For more information contact the bureau at 732-938-4500 ext. 2900.