What does the color coding on fire hydrants signify?

The color coding on fire hydrants is designed to provide critical information regarding the flow rate and pressure available at the hydrant. Specifically, the colors typically correspond to the gallon per minute (GPM) flow capabilities and the pressure at which water can be delivered for firefighting purposes. Firefighters and emergency responders rely on this information to assess whether the hydrant can supply sufficient water for extinguishing fires effectively.

For example, various colors may indicate different flow ranges, enabling responders to make quick decisions based on the hydrant's readiness to supply water. Red might indicate a lower flow rate, while colors such as green or orange could signal higher flow rates. This system allows crews to quickly gauge the capability of a hydrant, which can be crucial in emergency situations where every second counts.

The other choices involve information that fire hydrant colors do not convey. They do not indicate the location or age of the hydrant nor type of water supply, which means understanding the color coding's focus on flow and pressure is essential for effective firefighting operations.