Update: Illegal And Unauthorised Use Of Fire Hydrants Causing Water To Turn Brown In Rickardstown

Thursday, 4 April 2024 11:28

By Martin Osborne and Hannah Kelly

Kfm have received an update from Cllr Chris Pender, saying the issue comes down to the unauthorised use of fire hydrants

Residents in Rickardstown have taken to social media after their tap water turned brown.

In a video posted online, the water runs clear before turning brown in a white bowl.

Cllr Chris Pender said it is "absolutely disgusting".

One person took to social media, saying "Absolutely ridiculous in this day and age".

While another said: "This happens a lot around the Newbridge area. I'd love to know why this happens? I might recall it only happening twice to my parents as a kid in Dublin. This happens more than that in a year. How do we know it's safe?"

Kfm has contacted Uisce Eireann for comment.

In an update given to Kfm by Cllr. Chris Pender, illegal and unauthorised use of fire hydrants in the area are resulting in a backflow in the pipes.

This causes stagnant water to be disrupted, which is leading to the smell and discolouration, as seen in the video above.

Cllr Chris Pender suggests that if an individual witnesses anyone using a fire hydrant in any manner other than for a fire, to contact Kildare County Council.

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