Residents Asked to Help Clear Hydrants

Published on December 08, 2025

AMES, Iowa – Crews from Ames Public Works and Ames Fire Department are helping dig out fire hydrants around the community that were buried in the recent snowfall. Snow covering a fire hydrant not only hampers visibility for drivers, but it can also obscure the locations of fire hydrants, making them difficult to find when they’re needed most.

Ames residents are asked to check fire hydrants located near their homes or businesses to ensure they remain visible and accessible throughout the winter. There are more than 3,000 hydrants in Ames.

“In the case of an emergency, every second counts. If the fire hydrant is covered, residents are asked to clear a three-foot-wide area around the hydrant to ensure firefighters can locate it quickly during a fire,” said Chief Rich Higgins, Ames Fire Department.

Keeping hydrants clear not only helps protect homes and businesses, it also supports the safety of neighbors. Those who need assistance clearing the hydrants should call Fire Station No. 1 at 515.239.5109.

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