Vandals opened multiple fire hydrants in Sanford, causing significant damage to several roads.
The Sanford Water District said vandals opened four fire hydrants on Monday, losing a collective rate of 5,000 to 6,000 gallons a minute.
The water district’s monitoring system detected the sudden pressure drops and crews were able to shut down the affected hydrants.
“In a particularly commendable act, one of our employees confronted the culprits just as they were attempting to tamper with another hydrant, thwarting further incidents. Regrettably, the vandals managed to evade capture by the police,” the Sanford Water District said.
The water from the hydrants caused significant damage to two roads by undermining the pavement.
“It is important to recognize that such actions have the potential to cause significant destruction and repercussions. Improper opening or closing of fire hydrants can generate pressure surges that damage or even rupture water pipes beneath the street surface. Not to mention that flooding a road can lead to vehicular collisions and personal harm,” the Sanford Water District said.
Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to call the Sanford Police Department at 207-324-3644.
