As the weather heats up, the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department and DC Water are reminding those in the District not to open fire hydrants to cool off. Unauthorized hydrant use can hamper firefighting, damage the water system and cause injury. It can also flood streets, creating traffic dangers.

"Fire hydrants are for fighting fires, period," said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. "Only trained personnel with specialized tools should open them. Tampering with a hydrant can damage the hydrant, the nozzle and the underground pipes in the water distribution system."

"Public safety is our highest priority," added Fire and EMS Chief Kenneth B. Ellerbe. "Opening a hydrant can lower the water pressure and seriously affect our ability to fight fires. Also, the highly pressurized water can knock a person down and lead to injury."

Residents and visitors in the District should keep cool by staying in shade or air conditioning and drinking plenty of water. When the temperature or heat index reaches 95, residents are encouraged to protect themselves from the heat. If they do not live in an air-conditioned building, they may take refuge at a District swimming pool, cooling center, recreation facility, senior center or other air-conditioned building. More information, and locations, can be found at dc.gov or by calling 311.

District agencies and community groups hosting large outdoor events may also request the DC Water misting tent, scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis by calling the Office of External Affairs at 202-787-2200 or signing up online at dcwater.com/mistingtent.

In the event of a life-threatening heat emergency, please call 911 for medical assistance.

Tampering with a District hydrant is a crime, subject to a $100 fine upon conviction. To report unauthorized use of fire hydrants, please call 911.