What are the two primary types of fire hydrants operated by the Seattle Fire Department?

The two primary types of fire hydrants operated by the Seattle Fire Department are classified as wet barrel and dry barrel hydrants.

Wet barrel hydrants are designed to have water remain in the barrel at all times, making them ready for immediate use. Typically, these are common in warmer climates where freezing is not a concern. They allow for multiple outlets, each capable of discharging water without interfering with others.

On the other hand, dry barrel hydrants are utilized in areas where freezing temperatures are an issue. The design prevents water from remaining in the barrel when the hydrant is not in use, thereby reducing the risk of freezing. When activated, these hydrants fill with water, and they typically feature a drain valve to ensure that any residual water can escape when the hydrant is closed.

This distinction is crucial for fire operations, as the choice of hydrant type can affect response times and firefighting effectiveness, especially in varying temperature conditions. Understanding these two types aids firefighters in efficiently assessing the resources available during an emergency response.