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As Temperatures Freeze, So Can Fire Hydrants

Last updated on Friday, January 16, 2009

(UNDATED) - Firefighters are faced with a cold weather hazard that could put life and property at risk—frozen hydrants.

The issue has happened twice in 24 hours in Indianapolis. In both cases, Fire Captain Rita Reith says firefighters were able to hook to the nearest working hydrant without a long delay. But in a fire, Reith says even a few seconds can be critical.

Your local water company checks hydrants during severe cold, but Reith says no utility would have enough people to check every fire hydrant every day.

You might want to check the hydrant near your home or business. If it's packed in snow and ice, the fire department might not be able to open it.

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