The Town of Falmouth is calling upon the community to help put an end to water theft from town hydrants. Recently, rusty water has surfaced in several areas around town. Rusty water, according to a release from the town, is a result of opening a fire hydrant too quickly and surging the water main.
Although rusty water is not a health issue, it can be a household inconvenience when washing clothing and doing other chores.
The town's Water Department has determined that the recent surge in rusty water is a result of the illegal filling of contractor and landscaping tanker trucks.
Not only does this practice create issues for homeowners, it is also illegal, according to the release. Unauthorized filling of a tank for a hydrant can result in back-siphoning which could contaminate the town's water supply.
Fire hydrants should only be opened by authorized personnel such as firefighters and Falmouth Water Department workers.
Residents who observe a tanker being filled at a hydrant, other than a street sweeper, are asked to contact either the Falmouth Water Department at 508-457-2543 or Falmouth police at 508-457-2526. If at possible, please provide either the company name or license plate number of the vehicle when calling.
Editor's note: It was noted that the number listed for the Falmouth Water Dept. was not correct. That number was taken from the town release. The correct number (508-457-2543) is now listed above.