How often should fire hydrants be inspected and tested?

Fire hydrants should be inspected and tested at least once a year to ensure they are functioning properly and are ready for use in emergency situations. Regular annual inspections help to identify any maintenance needs, such as rust, leaks, or physical damage that could impede their operation when firefighters need to access water quickly during a fire emergency. Additionally, the annual testing verifies that the hydrants provide adequate water flow and pressure, which are critical factors in fire suppression efforts.

While other frequencies may appear sufficient, they do not align with best practices established for fire safety and water supply reliability. For instance, a five-year inspection period risks neglecting necessary maintenance that could lead to hydrants being inoperable when needed most. Similarly, monthly inspections may be overly burdensome and impractical for many systems, diverting resources from other essential maintenance activities. Thus, annual inspections strike an appropriate balance, ensuring readiness without overwhelming maintenance schedules.