The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (WASA) and the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) have reported low water pressure over the last several days in some neighborhoods due to unauthorized opening of fire hydrants by residents seeking relief from the heat.
The public is reminded that unauthorized use of hydrants is illegal. Such activity will cause low water pressure and service problems for customers and can damage the underground water infrastructure. Loss of adequate water pressure can have a negative impact on fire fighting when firefighters are unable to get enough water to suppress fires. Opening hydrants also poses a safety issue for young children who could easily be hurt from the high water pressure. The public is urged to report open hydrants by calling the WASA 24-hour emergency line at (202) 612-3400.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the aquatic facilities operated by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to help keep cool during the hot days of the summer season. Select from the following link for more information about days and hours of operation at DPR pools:
http://app.dpr.dc.gov/DPR/information/swimming_pools/index.asp
HSEMA Director Darrell Darnell said residents should limit their outdoor activities and take precautions to ensure they are not adversely affected by extreme heat. “In addition to taking steps to keep themselves safe during extreme heat, residents also should be sure to check on elderly relatives and neighbors and remember to bring their pets inside,” he noted.
Other recommended precautions include:
- Turn on an air-conditioner or fan
- DO NOT leave children or pets in vehicles
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear light-colored, lightweight and loose fitting clothes
- If you must go outside, apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out
- Limit exposure to the sun (the sun is most powerful between 10 am and 3 pm)
- Avoid alcoholic drinks and caffeinated beverages.
Select from the following link for more information about the health dangers of heat:
http://doh.dc.gov/doh/frames.asp?doc=/doh/lib/doh/information/fact_sheets/pdf/hotweather_alert.pdf*