The Grimsby Fire Department is asking residents in Grimsby, Ontario, to clear snow away from fire hydrants and home exhaust vents following heavy snowfall earlier this week. Firefighters issued the reminder on January 27, 2026, to ensure they can reach water quickly during emergencies and to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide build-ups in local homes. This warning follows a Significant Weather Event declared on January 25, 2026, that left many areas buried under snow.
Residents are asked to clear a one-metre (about three-foot) space all the way around any fire hydrant near their home. The Grimsby Fire Department noted that when firefighters have to dig out a buried hydrant, it wastes valuable minutes needed to establish a water supply. Keeping a clear path to a hydrant ensures crews can connect hoses and begin firefighting as soon as they arrive.
It is also important to clear snow and ice from gas meters and exhaust vents for furnaces and water heaters. Enbridge Gas warns that blocked vents can cause carbon monoxide to build up inside a home, which can be deadly. While hydrants can be cleared with a shovel, Enbridge and local officials advise using a soft brush or broom on gas meters and vents to avoid damaging regulators, piping or meters.
The Town of Grimsby does not clear snow from private property — residents are responsible for clearing hydrants on their property and for sidewalks that branch off onto private land. Residents who are unable to clear snow because of age or health issues are encouraged to ask neighbours for help or to use volunteer services such as Snow Angels Canada. People can also call 2-1-1 to be matched with local volunteers who can help with snow removal.
Officials also remind residents to keep all shovelled snow on their own property rather than pushing it into the street or onto a neighbour’s yard. Placing snow on the roadway is a violation under the Highway Traffic Act and may lead to fines. Keeping snow off the street helps snowplows do their jobs more effectively and keeps roads safer for everyone in the community.
