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East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
Achieving safer and more sustainable communities
Boroughs & Community Fire Stations
Know the Law and Don't Break it!
A person commits an offence if they damage or obstruct a fire hydrant, and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to £500 (Fire & Rescue Services Act 2004 42 (6-8).
It is illegal to use a fire hydrant to obtain water for purpose other than fire fighting, unless authorised by the Water Authority.
Persons found to be using fire hydrants without the appropriate authorisation are liable to prosecution.
Concerned a hydrant is being used illegally.
Please contact East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
Telephone 01323 462415 with as much details as possible:
- location
- time and vehicle
- registration numbers etc.
Fire Hydrants
A fire hydrant is a piece of equipment that is fixed to a water main from which a firefighter can access water for fire fighting.
Fire hydrants are situated in footpaths or roadways and are protected by a rectangular metal cover marked FH.
Nearby there will be a yellow marker plate fixed to a post or wall.
There may also be a yellow H in the adjacent roadway and/or the cover painted yellow.
East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service has in excess of 17,000 fire hydrants spread throughout East Sussex and Brighton & Hove City area. It is the responsibility of the two hydrant technicians to ensure that these hydrants are ready for use should an incident occurs. They also work closely with the Water Authority in relation the positioning of new hydrants.
Examination of fire hydrants is carried out at set intervals, determined by risk assessment. They will carryout repairs as appropriate and ensure that more serious defects are forwarded to the relevant Water Authority.
We encourage contact from the general public in relation to problems or enquiries about Fire Hydrants. Reports of damaged Fire Hydrant related equipment, are inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Please contact us, giving an accurate location as possible and details of your concern.
Contact: East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Headquarters - Tel: 01323 462462
Think Before you Park
In the event of a fire, it is paramount that firefighters have access to water supplies quickly.
Obstruction of a hydrant by inconsiderate parking could put the lives of your family and neighbours at risk.
Please ensure that when parking the area is checked to ensure that a fire hydrant IS NOT obstructed.