Clearing Snow From Fire Hydrants Can Earn Students Service Hours

TINLEY PARK, IL — In the wake of last week's snowstorm, Tinley Park officials are asking residents for help clearing away snow and ice blocking fire hydrants around the village. Students who help with those cleanup efforts also could see benefits in addition to eliminating potential dangers around town.

Community service hours can be earned by keeping hydrants clear of ice and snow, according to the village. It's possible for students to receive an hour of community service for each hydrant that's cleaned.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, snow and ice should be removed around 3 feet away from hydrants. That's the minimum space firefighters need in order to access a hydrant in case of a fire.

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In order to earn the credit, students should take before and after photos of the hydrant and email them to Assistant Village Manager Pat Carr at pcarr@tinleypark.org. The block where the hydrant is located, as well as the school the student attends, should also be included in the email.

Schools will verify if the hydrants have been cleared. Students wishing to participate in this effort should contact their school's community service representative, the village added.

Along with being asked to reduce potential fire hazards caused by snow-blocked hydrants, homeowners also are urged to make sure the outdoor vents for their clothes dryers aren't obstructed, leading to a build up of lint and the machine catching fire.

Photo via Village of Tinley Park