Which type of hydrant would you expect to have a flow of less than 500 gpm?

The type of hydrant expected to have a flow of less than 500 gallons per minute (gpm) is typically represented by a red color code. In the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) system, hydrants are color-coded based on their flow rates. Red hydrants indicate a low flow of less than 500 gpm, making them less suitable for firefighting operations that require higher water flows.

This designation helps firefighters quickly assess the available water supply at a hydrant in emergency scenarios. When a hydrant is identified as red, it alerts the responding personnel to the potential limitations in water supply for extinguishing fires. Consequently, firefighters may need to look for alternative hydrants or develop a different strategy for accessing sufficient water flow.

Other color codes like green, light blue, and orange are associated with higher flow rates. Green hydrants typically indicate a flow of 1,000 gpm or more, light blue indicates flows over 1,500 gpm, and orange signifies flows between 500 and 999 gpm. Understanding these color codes is essential for effective firefighting operations, ensuring that firefighters can make informed decisions about water supply when on scene.