Fire Hydrant Backflow Prevention Device Assemblies with Meter – General Discussion

A fire hydrant is an outlet connected to the public water system distribution system used for drawing for large amounts of water in the event of a fire. They come in different colors and designs. There are two types of fire hydrants a dry-barrel hydrants used in cold weather climates and the wet-barrel hydrant used in warm climates. Since fire hydrants are directly connected to the public water system distribution system the use of water from fire hydrants needs to be controlled to prevent a cross-connection. Fire hydrants are owned by the public water system or by individual property owners. The use of water from fire hydrants owned by the public water can be controlled by the public water system. The use of water from fire hydrants owned by individuals is more problematic since they are privately owned fire hydrants. Fire hydrants on private property are part of a larger fire protection system for that property and they are the responsibility of the property owner. The public water system is not responsible for the fires protection system including the fire hydrants on private property. However, the public water system if responsible for and has the authority to regulate the use of water from privately owned fire hydrants and fire protection systems. The water used to fight a fire comes directly from the fire hydrants and for the most part, cross-connection issues are controlled within the building by backflow prevention device assemblies installed on the fire sprinkler systems.

The issue with cross-connection and fire hydrants goes beyond the water used to fight a fire. The water used by the public water system for flushing the public water system distribution system of unwanted debris or disinfecting water mains due to elevated levels of coliform bacteria for example can be a greater public health concern. Other uses of fire hydrants that may contribute to a public health issue include but not limited to municipal services use, such as street sweepers, sewer maintenance trucks or paving equipment. Contractors who need temporary water may use fire hydrants with or without public water system approval. Residents my use water from hydrants to fill swimming pools or open the hydrants to recreational purposes. These uses shall be monitored by the public water system.