Most people have never heard of water being ‘stolen’, and may be surprised to learn that attaching an unauthorised standpipe to a hydrant isn’t just unsafe, it can genuinely affect the water coming out of peoples' taps.
That’s why Bournemouth Water is raising awareness about the dangers of using unapproved standpipes and accessing hydrants without permission. Unlike electricity or gas, where unauthorised connections are widely understood to be dangerous, many don’t realise that tapping directly into the water network can cause contamination, disrupt essential operations (including fire services), or even damage infrastructure.
To put it simply: water hydrants are part of a carefully protected system, and connecting equipment that hasn’t been checked, cleaned or approved can allow dirty water to flow back into the main supply. It’s rare, but it only takes one connection to cause major problems.
Earlier this year, Bournemouth Water identified an unapproved connection and followed the proper legal route to resolve it. While the case led to a prosecution, the company says the bigger message is about prevention and awareness.
Andy Shorey, Bournemouth Water’s Head of Operations, said: “Most people would never dream of connecting anything to the electricity grid or gas network, but many don’t realise that the same principles apply to water. Using unauthorised equipment can unintentionally put water quality at risk, both for the business using it and for the wider community. Our priority is always to keep everyone’s water safe. That’s why we want to help people understand what’s allowed, what isn’t, and why it matters.”
To make things easy for businesses, community groups and charities, Bournemouth Water provides an approved standpipe hire service through Aquam Water Services Ltd. All authorised standpipes include specialist protection devices to prevent back-flow and contamination, helping keep the whole network safe, for everyone.
More information on approved standpipe hire is available at:
www.bournemouthwater.co.uk/building-and-development/services/water-supply-connections/standpipe-hire