Basic Firefighter Written Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of a wet-barrel hydrant?

1. Permanent water supply

2. Closed system

3. Used in cold climates

4. Requires draining

The correct answer is: Permanent water supply

A wet-barrel hydrant is designed with a permanent water supply, meaning that it remains full of water at all times. This design ensures that the hydrant can provide immediate access to water without the need for priming or waiting, which is critical in emergency situations where quick access to water is necessary for firefighting efforts. In contrast, options related to a closed system and the need for draining do not apply to wet-barrel hydrants. A closed system is more characteristic of dry-barrel hydrants, which are designed for locations where freezing temperatures may occur; they are empty of water when not in use to prevent freezing. Similarly, the need for draining is necessary in dry-barrel hydrants to reduce the risk of water freezing in the barrel, which is not a concern with wet-barrel hydrants that are designed to remain under pressure at all times. Additionally, wet-barrel hydrants are typically used in regions with warmer climates where freezing is not a concern, reinforcing the idea that relying on a permanent water supply is essential for their operation.