FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE05-30
June
8, 2005
Contact:
Ian Michaels
(718) 595-6600
Department
of Environmental Protection Urges That Fire Hydrants Remain
Closed
Free
Hydrant Spray Caps Available
Commissioner Emily Lloyd of the New York City Department of Environmental
Protection urged New Yorkers today to not open fire hydrants illegally
during the current heat wave. Hydrants can be opened legally with
a free, City-issued spray cap.
“Hydrants are for fighting fires, and should be used responsibly,” said
Commissioner Lloyd. “Illegally opened hydrants can lower
water pressure, causing problems at hospitals and other medical
care facilities, and hindering fire-fighting by reducing the flow
of water to hoses and pumps. Also, children can be at serious risk,
because the powerful force of a open hydrant without a spray cap
can push them into oncoming traffic.”
The penalty for opening a hydrant without a spray cap is $500.
To report illegally opened hydrants or other water or sewer complaints,
call the City’s 24-hour help line at 311.
Hydrants can be opened legally if equipped with a City-approved
spray cap. One illegally opened hydrant wastes up to 1,000 gallons
of water per minute, while a hydrant with a spray cap only puts
out around 25 gallons per minute. Spray caps can be obtained by
an adult 18 or over, free of charge, at local firehouses.