Opening Hydrants Carries Stiff Penalties, Newark Officials Warn

Mayor Cory A. Booker, Fire Director Fateen A. Ziyad, and Fire Chief John G. Centanni warned Newark residents Wednesday that opening fire hydrants on city streets, particularly during summer heat waves, is not only illegal but also dangerous. During the summer, residents often open hydrants but doing so can severely cut water pressure firefighters need to quell blazes. Open hydrants disrupt the water supply for homes and businesses and create safety hazards for children who play in the water sprays and motorists. In addition, hydrants become damaged when the wrong type of wrench is used to open them.

“It is illegal to open fire hydrants in the City of Newark. This practice lowers water pressure which increases the potential for injury or death during a fire or other emergency,” Booker said. “I am urging our citizens to comply with the law and report open fire hydrants immediately to our Fire Department. By working together, our city can get through summer heat waves like the one we are experiencing today and tomorrow calmly and safely.”

Individuals who are caught illegally opening water hydrants are subject to fines of up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail for each offense. Open fire hydrants can substantially hamper the fire department’s ability to fight fires in an emergency situation.

Ziyad said, “The unauthorized use of fire hydrants puts an extremely heavy demand on the water system, causing significant pressure loss. We are working with the Division of Water and Sewer Utilities to turn off illegally opened fire hydrants. Fire companies will be on patrol, searching for open hydrants.”

“Our firefighters need ample water supply and pressure to quell fires and save lives and property in the City of Newark. When hydrants are opened illegally, it creates a life-threatening danger to both Newark residents and Firefighters alike. I urge Newark residents: do not tamper with fire hydrants,” said Chief Centanni.

To report an open fire hydrant and have it shut, contact the Fire Department at (973) 733-7400. For information about any City of Newark program or policy, contact the Non-Emergency Call Center at (973) 733-4311.