Hopewell Fire & EMS stresses importance of not blocking fire hydrants

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) -- Hopewell Fire & EMS is reminding the public of how vital it is that firefighters be able to access fire hydrants during emergency situations.

On Tuesday, July 22, crews with Hopewell Fire & EMS were called to an apartment building in the city for report of smoke.

When they arrived, they found a truck parked in front of the fire hydrant connected to the apartment's fire suppression system.

A truck blocking a fire hydrant in Hopewell on July 22. (Photo: Hopewell Fire & EMS)

"Fortunately, the incident turned out to be burnt food on the stove — but it serves as a critical reminder of how serious the outcome could have been," fire officials said.

Firefighters are trained to adapt in these kinds of situations -- but even the best training isn't always enough to prevent disaster.

"But even with training, time is lost when access to vital equipment like fire hydrants is blocked," fire officials said. "Blocking fire hydrants and fire lanes is not only illegal — it’s dangerous. In an emergency, every second matters, and we must have unobstructed access to hydrants to protect lives and property."

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If you park in front of a hydrant or in a designated fire lane, you could be fined and your vehicle could be towed.

"Please help your fire department by keeping fire hydrants and fire lanes clear at all times," fire officials said. "Your actions can make a life-saving difference."