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The most effective method for extinguishing fires is undoubtedly water. However, in most cases, when fires rage out of control, water is transported, spread, and sprayed onto the affected area through specific fire systems, thanks to a fire hydrant.

Therefore, water extinguishing system components such as fire pumps, hydrant systems, and fire cabinets ensure effective firefighting.

So, what is a fire hydrant, what does it do, what are its features and types, and how does it work? We’ve covered all the details you need to know about these systems, which are critical to fire safety.

What is a Fire Hydrant?

A fire hydrant is a water supply system that allows firefighters to replenish water to their vehicles during a fire or to fight a fire by placing a hose directly onto the hose nozzle. It is also known as a fire hydrant.

Fire hydrants, typically placed on building exteriors and in streets, are used for fire prevention.

A fire hydrant system consists of the following components:

• Connection Points: It typically consists of a red metal body.
• Fire Hydrant Valve: A fire valve that supplies water to the hydrant system.
• Hose: Hoses that supply water to firefighting equipment.
• Wrench: Special wrenches used to open or close the hydrant.
• Pressure Controller: A device used to control water pressure.

Fire Hydrant Types

There are two types of fire hydrants: underground and above-ground.

Underground fire hydrants are systems with water intake ports located below ground and covered with a cover. Rotating the shaft to which the hydrant valve is connected moves the hydrant. This creates a connection point, and water is supplied to the system through the valve. Firefighting is carried out with a hose. These types of hydrants are used in factories, warehouses, and forested areas.

Above-ground fire hydrants are divided into two types: dry and wet. A wet fire hydrant always has water in its valve. This type of hydrant is generally used in areas where there is no risk of low temperatures. This way, water is always readily available inside the hydrant and can be used quickly in an emergency.

In a dry fire hydrant, the water intake is at ground level. The system components consist of a shaft connected to the fire hydrant valve, a spring-loaded check valve, a hose connector, and cast iron parts.

How Does a Fire Hydrant Work?

When water is insufficient during a fire extinguishing process, a fire hydrant provides water to firefighting equipment quickly and uninterruptedly. This sprays water from the hydrant onto the area through a hose. The hydrant is opened and closed by turning the shaft with a hydrant wrench.

What Are the Dimensions of Fire Hydrants?

Fire hydrant sizes generally vary. However, the most common sizes are 1435, 1750, and 2150 millimeters. Hydrants manufactured in these sizes have two or three outlets.

How to Open a Fire Hydrant?

A fire hydrant is a system that can be opened and closed using a special key. Turning the key counterclockwise opens the hydrant, while turning it clockwise closes it. After use, the water in the hydrant is drained through a spring-loaded check valve.