Contact Us or Report a Defect

We encourage contact from the general public in relation to problems or enquiries about fire hydrants

Please report any of the following matters to us at hydrants@rbfrs.co.uk, or your local water company.

Illegal use

Many problems with fire hydrants are caused by illegal use. 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 are not visible, but even leaks visible above ground are often not reported due to the assumption that 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.

RBFRS will inspect and, where possible, repair any reportedly damaged or leaking fire hydrants as soon as possible.

If the repair needs additional work, then RBFRS will liaise with the relevant water authority to undertake the necessary repair.

Leaks from water supply pipes or mains 

Leaks from water supply pipes or mains are the responsibility of the water company but can affect the availability of water from a fire hydrant. The sooner leaks are reported to the water company, the sooner they can fix the problem. 

Dangerous, missing or cracked hydrant covers and frames 

When a fire hydrant cover is missing or cracked, it can pose a serious safety issue to both pedestrians and vehicles.

Also a missing lid will expose the hydrant to the elements, which can cause it to freeze and get blocked with mud or silt. This can stop it working when firefighters need it.