Hydrants

CCTV footage is currently being used to identify people who endanger lives by vandalising fire hydrants across Glasgow.  Vandalising a hydrant is a criminal offence under Section 23 of the Fire Scotland Act (2005).  The consequences for those caught can include:

• A fine of £5,000 for offenders
• A fine of £500 for parents of young offenders
• an ASBO   - local Housing Associations have the power to issue 'Acceptable Behaviour Contracts' and 'Anti Social Behaviour Orders' for people involved in hydrant vandalism.  Housing Associations have the power to evict people from their homes for persistent anti social behaviour
• a criminal record - any young person aged 8 or over can be arrested for vandalising hydrants.                                
• injury - many youths are injured by heavy hydrant covers, stones thrown out by the water, traffic and used syringes

Assistant Chief Officer Lewis Ramsay, Director of Community Safety, confirmed: 

"Hydrant vandalism is a crime.  If you see it, report it. There is a misconception that these actions constitute 'playing' with hydrants.  The reality is that this equipment is damaged, water supplies are restricted, and firefighters are diverted from lifesaving duties to cope with this thoughtless crime. 

"The fact is there are house fires every day in Glasgow.  We need water to put out fires.  Fire crews face the possibility of arriving at a fire and not having sufficient water pressure to tackle the blaze.  When crews are called on repeatedly to close vandalised hydrants there is also the risk that firefighters will be delayed in attending a real emergency. 

Vandalising hydrants is not harmless fun.  It puts lives at risk. If you see hydrant vandalism taking place, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Together we can make a difference."

To report an opened hydrant, please phone Scottish Water on 0845 6008855.