No Hydrating by Hydrants!

D.C. reminds residents to keep their cool some other way

The weather is warming up  but D.C. reminds residents not to cool down by opening fire hydrants.

D.C. Water and the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department say opening hydrants can cause injury and damage.

"Only trained personnel with specialized tools should open them" said D.C. Water General Manager George Hawkins.  "Tampering with a hydrant can damage the hydrant, the nozzle and the underground pipes in the water distribution system."

"Opening a hydrant illegally can lower the water pressure and seriously affect our ability to fight fires" said Fire Chief Kenneth Ellerbe." 

Tampering with a hydrant in the District is a crime subject to a $100 fine if convicted.

Residents who have a heat emergency should call 911 or use other means to keep cool.

Community groups hosting large outdoor events may request the D.C. Water misting tent.

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