The Bismarck Fire Department has put out a plea to the people of Bismarck to adopt a fire hydrant this winter.

According to a news release from Fire Marshal Ron Kunda, Bismarck sports 4,000 hydrants, and many of them can become inaccessible due to snow.

Snow around hydrants should be cleared 6 inches below all the caps and 3 to 4 feet around the hydrant.

"This gives firefighters the space they need to attach hoses and turn on water in case of a fire in your neighborhood," the release said.

Businesses also are asked to keep hydrants in their areas clear. For more information, call 355-1410.

- Jenny Michael