Northern Ireland

Fire hydrants vandalism 'illegal and dangerous'

Children grab the chance to play at a burst water pipe in 2016 before an official from Northern Ireland Water arrives to repair it. Picture by Cliff Donaldson
Children grab the chance to play at a burst water pipe in 2016 before an official from Northern Ireland Water arrives to repair it. Picture by Cliff Donaldson Children grab the chance to play at a burst water pipe in 2016 before an official from Northern Ireland Water arrives to repair it. Picture by Cliff Donaldson
By Bimpe Archer

HOMES and businesses in the New Lodge area of north Belfast are coping with low water pressure following continuing fire hydrant vandalism.

NI Water appealed for help from the community and political representatives over the apparently "harmless fun" by children which is risking the "unthinkable scenario... where a fire breaks out and there is no water for the NI Fire & Rescue Service to deal with the issue".

Infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon said she is "deeply concerned about the recent reports of fire hydrant vandalism".

"This vandalism is dangerous. It affects the water supply to the people of north Belfast, and could have serious consequences if water isn't available to deal with emergencies," she said.

"I would appeal to those responsible to think about the implications of their actions, have respect for their community and stop this wanton vandalism."

NI Water said it should be reported to the PSNI or to Waterline on 03457 440088.

Fire hydrant abuse is an offence under Article 236 of the Water and Sewerage Services Order 2006 and carries a fine of up to £2,500.

If the hydrant is damaged in any way, this is a separate offence of Criminal Damage for which the maximum penalty is a fine of £5,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to two years.