Firefighter Fact Friday - Hydrant Colors

Image taken from Meyerfire.com

🔥 Ever wonder what the different colors represent on fire hydrants?

Let's go over it! 

🔥 Typically, the color identifier is the bonnet or dome-shape on top of the hydrant. 

🔥 The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a collective of guidance used for different agencies to provide standards of safety. This is not a law or regulation but more of a "best practice."

🔥 NFPA 291 sets a guideline of suggested colors based on water flow rate (gpm - gallons per minute). These are not universal colors. Jurisdictions have the autonomy to use colors that work best for them. 

🔥 In Texas, hydrants are typically placed by the water company but paid for by the developer who needs it. This is subject to change based on the local jurisdiction's Zoning / Fire / Building Codes, etc. 

🔥 Below are some examples of different color coded hydrants in my jurisdiction. Start looking around and see what colors you have by you. Are they all the same or do you notice different colors in the same neighborhood?

🚒 Leave your questions in the comments or join the discussion on Instagram!