Water pipes buried underground and inside of buildings were extensively contaminated. Both fires destroyed fire hydrants, water pipes and meter boxes. Leaks and ruptured hydrants were common.

Could not, because the city of Bedford’s water meter boxes outside are now off limits to homeowners. “They now have this lock on it that only the city has keys to,” said Dickens.

SUMMERVILLE -- The Dorchester County Water Authority will begin locking its water meter boxes, which also hold shut-off valves. The moves angers at least some of its 7,000 customers, who ...