Area fire departments are asking for the public’s help to keep hydrants clear of snow so they can have access to them in case of fire.

The Knoxville and Pella Fire Departments join all in the area in asking the public to help them out by “adopting” a hydrant and clearing at least three feet around it.

Caution should be used when working on a hydrant; a snowblower or plow is good for clearing out large spaces, but can damage the pipes or fixtures, so the snow on or near a hydrant should be cleared away by hand, using shovels or brooms.