Fire hydrant and water supplies for firefighting have come a long way since their inception. Before piped main supplies, water for firefighting came from the good old buckets filled with water. Frederick Greef was an American Hydraulic Engineer who invented the modern fire hydrant in 1801 and was developed by George Smith in 1817.
What is the purpose of a fire hydrant?
A fire hydrant is a connection point that is used by firemen to tap directly into piped main supplies or water supply to add on to their emergency water tanks. Fire hydrants are strategically placed along roads, streets, and workplaces and they are often highlighted for visibility to the public and firemen.
The fireman attaches a hose to the fire hydrant, opens a valve on the fire hydrant to provide a powerful flow of water and is one of the most essential firefighting equipment available to extinguish fires. Can you imagine in an emergency, what would happen if a fireman hooked up the hose to the hydrant and it failed?
This is exactly what occurred at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital disaster in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 16 April 2021. The fire hydrant couplings were not compatible with the fire hoses on Johannesburg fire service fire engines because “some had been stolen”. The fire caused the destruction of an estimated R40m in hospital supplies and the evacuation of 700 patients. Without working fire hydrants, there will be very little even a professional fireman can do. Below was the effect of the damage.
The dangers of tampering with a fire hydrant
In South Africa, people do not realise the dangers when temptation leads them to tampering with a fire hydrant.
Hand wheel hydrants are probably one of the more riskier fire hydrants to install as it is quite easy for any passerby to tamper with it, and although tamperproof hydrants are available in South Africa, this does not stop people from trying to tamper with it. Attempting to open tamperproof fire hydrants incorrectly can damage the hydrant, cause damage to water lines and cause a loss of water pressure. This loss in water pressure can significantly impact the pressure needed by fireman to battle the blaze. Damage to the water lines can cause expensive damage resulting in leaks and main breaks.
Where should a fire hydrant be located?
Fire hydrants should be in a clear and easily accessible area to prevent fireman from wasting valuable time trying to locate the fire hydrants during an emergency. Placing fire hydrants in an accessible area allows fireman to easily access water to control the fire and limit extensive damage to the property.
There is more technical information that goes into “where they should be located” around a building and a company like Elite Fire Protection can help you with this.
How often should fire hydrants be serviced?
Fire hydrants like any other fire protection equipment should be serviced annually to ensure that the desired pressure is maintained, and that the hydrant is free of any obstructions and damage.
Common issues found with fire hydrants during inspection
- Hornets’ nest
- Rubbish and debris
- Vandalism
- Cigarette buds
- Used to wash cars or for personal use
- Physical obstruction
It is important that the public is educated and aware of the negative consequences of tampering with a fire hydrant and avoid doing so in future. Whilst vandalism is always going to be an issue, the best way to prevent or reduce damage by the public is to consider tamperproof fire hydrants.
What parts should be checked?
All parts and valves of a fire hydrant should be kept clean at all times to prevent any possible delay in an emergency situation. Rust and other hazards or common issues (as mentioned above) on the equipment can delay the connection of the hoses and in turn delay the process of extinguishing the flames. As with any fire equipment, companies should make maintenance of fire hydrants a priority.
The wheel valve is one of the most important components of a hydrant because it opens the water supplies. During a service (or inspection), one needs to determine whether or not the wheel can be easily turned without any struggles. An inspector can do a practical test on the wheel by turning it open but cautiously enough not to cause any harm to property or pose a safety threat when water starts to pour out.
The lug or double lug outlet of a fire hydrant should be in full working condition. It should move freely so that the hose can be fixed quickly and firmly to the hydrant. Also, while the fire hydrant is in use, it is essential to establish that it moves back into position so that the hose remains firmly in place to the hydrant. Part of the servicing is checking the functionality of all these components to ensure you have an effective working fire hydrant.
How do I find the fire hydrant?
Like most fire equipment in the workplace or escape routes, there are symbolic signs that represent or show the location of a fire hydrant. Symbolic signs for equipment are a legal requirement and therefore employers should ensure they always follow the letter of the law. Symbolic signs for a fire hydrant should be placed adjacent to the hydrant, should be visible and clear, and in accordance with SABS. This will speed up locating them during an emergency. Signs for fire hydrants are readily available by a SABS supplier or through a fire protection company installing the fire hydrant.
Get fire hydrants installed and serviced at Elite Fire Protection
At Elite Fire Protection we offer, inspections and assessments, supply, installation, signage and maintenance of fire hydrants.
If you work in an environment that requires fire protection and safety, we can help find the best solution for you, your property, and your people. Contact us today for more information.
