What do the colors of a fire hydrant typically signify?

The colors of a fire hydrant are used to convey information about the flow rate of water available from that hydrant. This system helps firefighters quickly assess the water supply they can expect during firefighting operations without needing to open it and test it. Each color corresponds to a specific range of flow rates measured in gallons per minute (GPM), indicating whether the hydrant can provide a low, moderate, or high flow of water.

For example, a hydrant painted in a specific color, like blue, may indicate a high flow rate of over 1,500 GPM, while green, orange, and red may represent lower flow rates. This information is crucial in determining which hydrants can support the firefighting efforts effectively, particularly in emergency situations where every second counts. Understanding the color coding aids firefighters in making informed decisions rapidly, ensuring they have sufficient resources to combat fires efficiently.