Here's How to Legally Beat the Heat with New York City Fire Hydrants

Classic NYC Summer | An open hydrant spraying water on a hot summer day.
Classic NYC Summer | An open hydrant spraying water on a hot summer day.
Photo: Phil Roeder

New York City has had some pretty intense heat waves in recent years, and a common way for residents to beat the heat is to turn a neighborhood fire hydrant into a large sprinkler for the kids. You're not supposed to go out with a wrench and open one on your own though, so how do you legally get a fire hydrant turned on? Check out this short animated GIF from the NYC Mayor's Office to learn how to request your legal spray cap.

Matt Coneybeare

Matt Coneybeare

Editor in Chief

Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.

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