Fire crews have hit drivers with £500 fines for parking across manhole covers which contain fire hydrants.
When you think of fire hydrants, you probably imagine the little red street furniture seen in American movies. But they exist in the UK too, hidden under drain covers and manhole covers on British roads.
Posting to its official Facebook page, Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service issued a warning to drivers over the illegal parking, which is outlawed under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004.
Fire crews are also authorised to tow away any vehicles parked over a fire hydrant.
The fire service said: “What’s wrong in this picture? A vehicle parked over a fire hydrant.
“Recently, this exact situation delayed our crews in Lancaster and prevented firefighters from securing a water supply straight away during an emergency.
“It’s not just inconsiderate parking, it’s illegal.
“Under the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 (Section 42), parking over a hydrant can lead to a fine of up to £500. Fire services are also authorised to move obstructing vehicles, which may include breaking a window to release the handbrake if necessary.
Help us help you: Think before you park; Keep hydrants visible and accessible; Never park on or near hydrant markings.
“Every second counts and your actions can save lives.”
But how can you tell what you’re parking on is a fire hydrant?
The way they look will differ in different areas of the country, under different fire services.
According to West Midlands Fire Service, its fire hydrants should have markings on the drain cover, such as FH, and/or a marker in the ground nearby.
It says: “The West Midlands Fire Service is entrusted with the upkeep of around 47,000 fire hydrants throughout the region. It is our duty to guarantee that these essential fire-fighting tools are well-maintained and accessible at all times.
“Our fire hydrants are identified by a post or plate marker nearby, typically labelled with 'H' or 'FH'. The numbers signify the nearby hydrant location, pipe size, and distance from the marker.
“The hydrants themselves are typically not visible. They aren't the same as those colourful pillar-like hydrants you might see in American films or TV. In the UK, they're usually taps under the road or pavement beneath a small metal plate. Usually, they're labelled 'FH'. You'll often find them under covers on roads, footpaths, or verges.
“Our dedicated team of Hydrant Maintenance Technicians routinely inspect and test the hydrants, fix any minor issues and report significant faults. Major repair work, however, is managed by the local water company.
“Occasionally, hydrant markers may need to be relocated - for example, when a property owner wants to widen a driveway. If this is the case, you can complete the short form at the bottom of this page to get in touch.”