The Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA) has observed a recent increase in unauthorized and noncompliant connections to public fire hydrants. Unauthorized hydrant use may violate applicable laws and CRRUA requirements and may result in civil or criminal enforcement.
“Illegal hydrant connections involve more than the unauthorized taking of water,” said CRRUA Executive Director Juan Crosby. “They also pose a public-health risk because an improper connection can cause backflow and potentially introduce contaminants into the public water system.”
A backflow prevention device helps keep water from flowing backward from a truck, tank, hose, or other equipment into the public drinking-water system, Crosby explained.
Any fire hydrant used for construction or bulk-water purposes must be equipped with a CRRUA-authorized hydrant meter and the appropriate backflow-prevention device, as required for the particular filling activity.
“The unauthorized taking of water from hydrants affects all residents,” Crosby said. “Members of the public who observe a construction truck or water-hauling vehicle filling from a fire hydrant without a visible CRRUA meter are encouraged to report it.”
“Anyone who suspects water theft from a hydrant should not confront the individuals involved,” said Sunland Park Police Chief Kiri Daines. “Instead, notify Sunland Park Police and, if it is safe to do so, provide the location, date, time, vehicle description, and company name.”
Residents may also report suspected unauthorized hydrant use to CRRUA at 575-589-1075. CRRUA staff will review all reports received.
“We take this matter seriously,” Crosby said. “In addition to notifying the Sunland Park Police Department, we are contacting the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office and the New Mexico State Police.”
Companies needing construction or bulk water must establish a service account with CRRUA and obtain the required equipment and authorization before using a fire hydrant.
Applications may be submitted at the CRRUA Customer Service Office, located at 4700 McNutt Road in Sunland Park, New Mexico.
For more information, visit crrua.org or follow CRRUA on Facebook.
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