Courtesy-Indiana American Water
FRANKLIN, Ind. – Indiana American Water is raising public awareness in Franklin about a growing problem of unauthorized water use from fire hydrants. Filling tanker trucks, filling swimming pools, or opening hydrants for “street showers” are examples of illegal fire hydrant use.
This illegal activity not only constitutes theft of water but also poses risks to reliable fire protection service as well as disruptions in water quality.
“We’ve seen an unusual number of concerns from customers about sediment and discoloration of their water. That indicates there may be unauthorized use of water being drawn from Franklin’s distribution system, which is usually caused by unauthorized use of our system’s fire hydrants,” said Travis Edington of Indiana American Water.
Each year, Indiana American Water methodically flushes its water distribution systems by opening hydrants throughout the community, allowing crews to inspect fire hydrants, flush sediments, and test water pressure and quality. Intermittent opening of hydrants by citizens can lead to turbidity, requiring additional work to re-flush water mains.
Residents are encouraged to report their concerns about water theft by contacting Indiana American Water at 1-800-492-8373.
Theft of water from unauthorized fire hydrants can:
- Damage a fire hydrant or reduce the water pressure needed in a fire emergency
- Cause water main breaks and interrupt water service to nearby customers
- Create disruptions in water quality by disrupting sediment and mineral deposits
- Add the burden of the cost of water on paying customers
