Malden Officials Urge Residents to 'Adopt a Hydrant' Now

Photo Credit: Malden Mayor Gary Christenson after shoveling out his adopted fire hydrant on Ashland Street last winter.

Malden city officials are hoping to expand upon the success of the “Adopt a Hydrant” program launched last winter.

The program encourages residents to commit to keeping a fire hydrant near their home clear of snow during snowstorms. Of the 1,166 hydrants Malden, only 56 have been adopted – now’s your chance to choose your hydrant.

During snowstorms, it is a challenge to keep the 1,166 fire hydrants in the city cleared, according to officials.

Winter storms often hide fire hydrants under snow making them impossible to find quickly. In the event of a fire, firefighters have to first locate and shovel out buried fire hydrants before utilizing them. Precious time is lost and lives may be impacted.

The City is asking that residents please assist them with keeping the fire hydrant closest to their residence or business clear of snow. For the best access to hydrants, the Fire Department requests a three foot clearance on all sides. To select and adopt a hydrant, please visit www.cityofmalden.org/adoptahydrant and sign up online.