Water

Eco-explainer: Should you open up fire hydrants to cool off?

As heat waves continue through the end of Summer, fire hydrants are one way residents cool off. But it’s an illegal – and unsustainable – habit.

Driving through certain streets in Philadelphia, you may get a soapless car wash by an unexpected open fire hydrant.

The City of Philadelphia has over 25,000 fire hydrants. But, they shouldn’t be used for cooling off from the summer heat.

An open fire hydrant can waste approximately 2000 gallons of water per minute?! They can also cause bodily harm due to the force, flood damage (flooded basements), and cause damage to the hydrant, jeopardizing its use in case of emergency fires.

It’s also illegal to open fire hydrants.


What should you do if you see an open hydrant?

You can call the Philadelphia Water hotline at 215-685-6300 to report an open fire hydrant.

Or share this vide:

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Philly’s new big cats, PGW rate hike reduction, watershed survey & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Philadelphia Zoo welcomes two feline arrivals. Rory, a…

2 days ago

Circle Compost and Rabbit Recycling unite to make it easier to go zero waste in Philly

New bundled service offers residents discounted composting and recycling options to keep waste out of…

3 days ago

Controversial SEPTA funding, heat adaptation, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: PA lawmakers propose controversial funding structure for SEPTA.…

1 week ago

Wissahickon Trails connects land, water, and people

The upper portion of the watershed is ready to be discovered Ask any Philadelphian to…

1 week ago

Pruning for paving, or trees in trouble?

City crews say they’re taking care to preserve trees during road repairs, but advocates argue…

2 weeks ago

New park renovations, SBN Director steps down, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Newly renovated playground and basketball court in Port…

2 weeks ago