Fire hydrant spray caps are a fun way to cool off in the heat, but it's not safe to open the hydrant on your own. If the fire hydrant near your home doesn't have a spray cap, you can ask for one at a nearby firehouse. Attempting to open hydrant valves on your own reduces the availability of water and lowers water pressure, complicating firefighting efforts and putting the safety of New Yorkers and emergency personnel at risk. You must bring your photo ID and be at least 18 years old to fill out

I talk a lot about "pumping the hydrant" because I was brought up to do it in the PG/DCFD area and because I have repeatedly seen it pay off on the fireground. It is essentially remnants of the old school "wagon & pumper" 2-piece engine company, but it still has ample benefits today. The primary benefits are: 💧 The ability to increase pressure/GPM to the attack engine if necessary. You can often increase your flow by 50% or more. How much, specifically, is dependent on your water system. 🚒 It