The Brockville Fire Department want to remind the public that winter conditions can cause fire safety hazards.
Chief Fire Prevention Officer Greg Healy urges anyone with a fire hydrant on their property to make sure the hydrants are easily accessible and not crusted with ice or snow. Brockville Fire points out that many people don’t realize it is illegal to bury or obstruct a fire hydrant with a snowbank.
Under the Ontario Fire Code exit doors, exterior fire escapes and stairways must be free from obstructions, including snow and ice. Healy says they are reminding building owners it is their responsibility to ensure exits in occupied buildings are not frozen shut or blocked with snow.
Brockville Fire reminds the public that time is precious in an emergency and you should do everything you can to protect yourself.
