The Hammonton Fire Department reminded locals on January 30th that further snow and precipitation were expected over the weekend. Access to fire hydrants is an essential component of winter readiness, according to fire authorities, since emergency responders continue to react to calls regardless of the weather.

According to the department, snow and debris had almost completely buried or stopped a number of hydrants in the neighborhood. Firefighters may need several people to empty hydrants when they are inaccessible, which can take several minutes. This may lessen the number of personnel available for other situations and postpone efforts to put out fires. Residents were urged to keep access roads free and to remove snow and debris from nearby hydrants. In order to ensure that firemen can promptly acquire a water supply while responding to crises during winter weather, hydrants should be kept visible and easily accessible.