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Mount Vernon FD Urges Residents To Dig Out Fire Hydrants

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. – After firefighters struggled to find an operational water source while battling a blaze Monday on South 12th Avenue, city officials are calling on homeowners to clear and inspect fire hydrants on their property.

The top story of the Mount Vernon home was gutted while firefighters searched for an operational hydrant.

The top story of the Mount Vernon home was gutted while firefighters searched for an operational hydrant.

Photo Credit: First On Scene Photos
There were several blown out fire hydrants in Mount Vernon.

There were several blown out fire hydrants in Mount Vernon.

Photo Credit: First On Scene Photos
Mount Vernon firefighters had to check several hydrants before they found one to help battle the blaze.

Mount Vernon firefighters had to check several hydrants before they found one to help battle the blaze.

Photo Credit: First On Scene Photos

The Mount Vernon Fire Department – with mutual aid coming from Pelham Manor, Eastchester and Yonkers – responded to a second-story fire at 13 S. 12th Ave. after a candle toppled onto clothes, sparking the blaze Monday afternoon.

When firefighters arrived at the scene, a series of fire hydrants on and near the residence were blown out, which delayed efforts to knock down the flames. The cause of the hydrant failures still is being investigated as of Wednesday.

The city is calling on residents to inspect hydrants for any obvious problems and to ensure they are dug out of the snow in case of an emergency. If homeowners notice any tampering, damaged or inoperable hydrants, they are instructed to call the water department at (914) 665-2330.

In case there is an immediate need for hydrant maintenance, call the emergency hot line at (914) 668-3528.

“The Mount Vernon Fire Department wants to remind residents and property owners to shovel areas around fire hydrants so that firefighters can connect equipment without delays,” the city council said in a joint statement. “Clearing a three-foot radius around the hydrant and a clear path to the street will allow for speedy access to this vital water source.”

 

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