Children who set off fire hydrants to cool down in the hot weather are being warned of the risks it poses.

Footage has emerged showing kids playing in an open fire hydrant which is shooting jets of water up in the air.

The Cowley Road footage in Ribbleton has triggered an angry response from water firm United Utilities.

Network manager Alex Bolton said: “These hydrant vandals are not only putting themselves at risk of injury from highly pressurised water, they can affect water supplies for local homes, businesses, hospitals and vulnerable customers.

“These incidents are a drain on resources for us and, in a worst case scenario, could affect the fire service’s ability to tackle a blaze in a community. Ultimately, it’s selfish behaviour – the people responsible could be putting their own friends and family at risk.”

Water shooting in the air as kids play Pic: Stephen Melling

A number of nearby residents reported low water pressure and a lack of hot water during Wednesday afternoon.

The video below, released by United Utilities, explains the anti-vandal caps they fit to the fire hydrants.

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