A fire hydrant is a piece of equipment that provides emergency access to mains water for firefighting by supplying or refilling the tank in a fire engine.
Location of hydrants
Fire Hydrants are mainly found in public footways or highways and tend to be attached to a fence, wall or a short concrete post. They are yellow rectangular signs with a large black ‘H’. The numbers above identify the size of the water main, and the number(s) below show the distance to the hydrant.
As well as marker plates, all hydrants are also shown on the digital maps available in fire engines, so that the nearest one can be found while firefighters are on their way to an incident. This also means that even if marker plates are missing or broken, the fire service will still be able to find them in most cases, and once reported they will be repaired in due course.
Hydrant obstruction
Obstructing a hydrant, specifically via inconsiderate parking can place everyone at risk as it can impact our firefighters having access to water quickly in the event of a fire. A person commits an offence if they damage or obstruct a fire hydrant and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding £500 (Fire and Rescue Services Act Section 42).
Illegal use
It is against the law to obtain water for purposes other than firefighting, unless authorised by the water authority or other person to whom the hydrant belongs. Individuals found to be using fire hydrants without the appropriate authorisation are liable to prosecution. The public can tell the local water companies or the fire service when they suspect illegal use. Key pieces of information such as the registration number and any company names on a vehicle, along with the date, time and location of the activity will be very helpful, but please avoid confrontation with suspected offenders.
Leaks from fire hydrants
Most leaks are below ground and not visible, but even leaks on the surface are often not reported due to people assuming someone else will have already reported a problem. Leaks affect water flow and pressure from a fire hydrant, making it less effective if firefighters need to use it. Please report any leaks as soon as they are discovered.
Reporting broken hydrants
If you spot a broken hydrant lid or a broken frame, please report this so it can be dealt with in a timely manner and prevent it from becoming a risk. Between the hours of 08:00-16:00 please call 01429 874100. If it is outside of these hours, please call either:
- Anglian Water – 0345 7145145
- Northumbria Water – 0345 7171100
Hydrant explainer
