Water Supplies & Hydrants

Question 1

What are the three main water sources?

Answer 1

Wells, boreholes and springs

Reservoirs

River intakes

Question 2

What is meant by the term ‘water hammer’?

Answer 2

Water passing through a pipe possesses both mass and velocity (speed). If this flow is suddenly stopped, the moving mass of water is instantly converted to pressure energy. Since the force must be absorbed by the pipe and it’s fittings, sudden shock could burst or damage the main.

Question 3

Detail the four types of hydrant indicator plate

Answer 3

Class A plate - for general use except on roads of motorway standard

Class B plate - for use on roads of motorway standard

Class C plate - for emergency water supplies

Class D plate - for meter by pass valves

Both class A and B plates can refer to single (H) or double (HD) hydrants

Question 4

What are the seven points to remember when operating a hydrant?

Answer 4

Open slowly

Close slowly

Ensure valve is closed after use

Check frost valve works correctly

Ensure pit is left clean and dry

If the pit is flooded, do not remove the standpipe until the valve is closed

Do not remove the standpipe from a hydrant where the supply has failed, or no water is available until the valve is closed

Question 5

Detail the relevant sections of the Fire and Rescue Act 2004

Answer 5

Section 38

Section 39

Section 40

Section 41

Section 42

Section 43

READ NOTES FOR MORE INFO ON SECTIONS