As you prepare for the upcoming winter storm, the Modena Fire Company encourages residents to follow a few simple safety reminders around your home.

Winter weather can create fire safety hazards, including ice or heavy snowfall that may block fire hydrants. You can help reduce these risks by keeping nearby fire hydrants accessible and clear of ice and snow.

In emergencies, blocked or hard-to-access fire hydrants can delay the fire department’s response. Fire trucks only carry a limited supply of water, so locating and connecting to the nearest hydrant quickly is essential. Snow-covered hydrants can be difficult to find, and uncovering them may take valuable time that firefighters need to search for anyone inside the home and to control the fire. By keeping hydrants clear, you help ensure firefighters have faster access to water when it matters most.

Residents are also reminded to keep natural gas meters and vents free from snow and ice buildup. Gas pressure regulator vents must remain clear to prevent hazardous natural gas or carbon monoxide from building up inside the home. These vents can become clogged, especially when melting snow and ice refreeze at night, so it's important to check and clear them regularly.

Please also remember to run generators at least 10 feet away from your home to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide entering your living spaces.