Local fire and police departments have asked residents to clear their cars and hydrants to make the area safer.

Residents can check the snow removal route map on the city’s website.

If a vehicle constitutes a hazard to the city’s snow removal, the vehicle may be towed, and the owner may be punished with a fine of up to $150, according to section 51.13-5 of the DeKalb Municipal Code.

Snowfall may cover fire hydrants, making the job of the city’s fire department more difficult.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 905 people die in winter home fires each year.

“Make a clean entry to the fire hydrant from the roads to make the fittings accessible in case there is a fire,” said Sycamore Fire Lt. Dan Marcinkowski.

DeKalb Fire Chief Eric Hicks said residents should make sure their sidewalks and driveways are clear of snow and ice. He also said residents should clear off catch basins to prevent flooding in the streets.

“When it’s extremely cold out, make sure you don’t turn your heat down low when you leave the house,” Hicks said. “We’ve had quite a few water breakages caused by frozen pipes.”

DeKalb Police Cpl. Scott Farrell said motorists should be wary of snow plow routes and should clear off their vehicles often so they can be moved easily.

“When there is hazardous weather, if you do not have to take a trip, don’t take a trip,” Farrell said.