As snow continues to blanket the state, New Jersey American Water reminds homeowners and local businesses to keep areas surrounding fire hydrants clear so firefighters can connect their equipment without delays. Winter brings snow that can obstruct fire hydrants and surrounding areas. Home and business owners must keep in mind fire hydrant accessibility is a primary factor in fighting fires successfully.
"Easy access to fire hydrants is critical in the event of a fire emergency," said New Jersey American Water President John Bigelow. "We ask our customers to assist fire fighters by keeping clear the area around hydrants that supply water necessary to keep communities safe."
New Jersey American Water maintains more than 43,000 fire hydrants throughout the state.
New Jersey American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE:AWK), is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.5 million people. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 16 million people in 35 states, as well as Ontario and Manitoba, Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.
American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.
Contacts:
New Jersey American Water
Richard G. Barnes, 856-782-2371
richard.barnes@amwater.com