What is the primary function of a fire hydrant?

The primary function of a fire hydrant is to supply water for firefighting. Fire hydrants are crucial components of a municipal water supply system and are strategically placed throughout communities to ensure easy access to a reliable water source in emergencies.

When firefighters arrive at the scene of a fire, they connect hoses to the hydrants to draw large volumes of water needed to suppress flames effectively. This quick access to water is vital for controlling and extinguishing fires, as it allows firefighters to apply water directly to the affected areas.

While extinguishing fires is a goal of the firefighting process, the hydrant itself does not extinguish fires but rather provides the necessary water supply to achieve that goal. The concept of supplying pressure for hoses is also closely related, but it is dependent on the hydrant's ability to deliver water, making the supply function more foundational. Lastly, testing water quality is not related to the purpose of fire hydrants in fire suppression.