“Hide” the Hydrant

 

While I prefer the work of a Truck Co, there is no better sound to hear when doing an aggressive primary search, than the sound of flowing water.  Hearing the Engine Co pushing in with the line is pure magic.  As much as I would like to say that we truckie’s can stomp out the flames ourselves, one good job makes you appreciate the little fellas, human door chocks, ah…the engine!

While on vacation, chasing my kids through this nicely landscaped garden, I noted something red.  What was hidden here?  

Where’s the hydrant Waldo?

Have you pre-planned, Are you ready?

 An underground hydrant!  I could not pry the lid open without a tool, but this was certainly a new one for me.  

 Obviously this is something that all first alarm responding engine company chauffeur’s and officers need to be aware of.  This should occur in multiple layers, in pre-planning, be announced over the air in a “Critical Dispatch Information”, and again while on the fireground.  You can only imagine a relocated/fill in/transfer company responding in and attempting to find this hydrant, the delay could prove difficult and/or deadly.  

Pre-planning and communicating water supply difficulties and “odd ball” water supply issues are paramount.  Knowing your districts buildings and your nearest source of water will result in getting that all important positive water supply faster.  Mastering these will create a safer work environment for our members and the citizens we protect.