Now that winter has arrived, the Sussex Fire Department is asking residents and businesses to "adopt a fire hydrant" by keep it clear of snow.

The department would like everyone in the village to keep an eye on the hydrant closest to their home (or business) and make sure that there is no snow within 3 feet of the hydrant.

Doing so will allow the department to quickly locate a hydrant for firefighting activities and give the firefighters room to work should the need arise. It may take four to six minutes to dig out a fire hydrant, and because a fire can double in size every 20 seconds, any time wasted trying to dig out a hydrant could have devastating consequences.

The department also is asking residents to hep out elderly neighbors or those with medical problems by keeping their hydrants clear from snow as well.