The buildings near the fire hydrants may qualify for the insurance discounts, because the fire fighters will be able to put off the fire in the insured property using the water from the fire hydrant valve easily. In olden days the fire fighter who receives a call regarding fire will have to dig a hole to secure water mains underground and should make a hole in the main, so that the water will get filled and makes a temporary well. Then the water has to be carried to the place of fire in a bucket.
The fire hydrant is called as fire plugs or as Johnny pump. In New York City fire men were called as Johnnies in late 19th century. The hand pumped fire engines came for the next years. A hose manufactured by valve and fire hydrant supplier will be attached to the hydrant and it will be connected to the fire engine to boost up the pressure and it will be divided into various streams. The care should be taken so that the hydrant is not closed or opened too quickly. This will create a water hammer and will damage the nearby water pipes and other equipments. Fire equipment: The fire hydrants made of ductile cast iron are sometimes misused by vandals. Some people might use this water to cool themselves and residents in summer. But sometimes the local contractors who need water will purchase the permits from the local municipality and use them along with a hydrant meter. But this act will reduce the pressure during the emergency for fire fighters. In some places the people will be allowed to fill their swimming pool after paying the municipality. But in turn they should allow the fire fighters to draft back the water during emergency.
Thus fire hydrants are not only used to suppress fire but also for other purposes. The local street sweepers and tank trucks will use the fire hydrant and will report the usage of water or will use a meter, in order to flush the sewage lines.