With the heavy snow this week and winter hanging on, the Newton Fire Department is reminding local residents to keep fire hydrants clear of snow.

Residents are asked to clear an area of at least three feet around the hydrant so the fire department can have easy access if the hydrant is needed. If the fire hydrant in buried, it can cause delays in reaching the adequate water supply that may be needed.

The fire department also is reminding local residents to keep fireplaces and wood burners clean and, if using additional heat sources, to use them safe and properly.