Keeping Water Moving: Dry Hydrant Flushing & Water Supply Pre-Planning

Throughout this month, members of the Sandisfield Fire Department will be conducting routine operations focused on flushing dry hydrants and pre-planning water supply locations across town.

Residents may see fire apparatus positioned near ponds, streams, or other rural water sources, with hose lines deployed and pumps operating. This activity does not indicate an emergency. It is part of a scheduled, proactive effort to ensure our water supply infrastructure is reliable when it matters most.

What is a Dry Hydrant?

A dry hydrant is a non-pressurized pipe system installed in a water source such as a pond or cistern. It allows fire apparatus to quickly draft water using onboard pumps in areas where municipal hydrants are not available—something especially critical in a rural community like Sandisfield.

Why We Flush Dry Hydrants

Over time, dry hydrants can become obstructed by:

• Silt and sediment buildup

• Debris or vegetation growth

• Ice damage or seasonal shifts

Flushing these systems ensures:

• Unrestricted water flow during emergencies

• Proper drafting capability for pump operations

• Verification that connections and fittings remain serviceable

Pre-Planning Water Supply Locations

In addition to maintenance, crews are conducting water supply pre-plans. This includes:

• Evaluating access points for apparatus placement

• Identifying optimal drafting sites for different seasons

• Calculating flow capabilities and shuttle operations

• Updating internal maps and response plans

These pre-plans are critical for reducing turnaround time, improving incident command decision-making, and ensuring efficient water shuttle operations during working fires.

Why This Matters

Sandisfield does not have a traditional hydrant system. Our ability to deliver water effectively depends on:

• Reliable dry hydrants

• Known, accessible drafting locations

• Trained personnel familiar with each site

This work directly impacts fireground performance, firefighter safety, and property conservation.

What to Expect

• Fire apparatus operating near water sources throughout the month

• Hose lines deployed and pumps running intermittently

• Crews working in and around roadways—please use caution when passing

Again, these are planned operations—not emergency responses.

This is part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining operational readiness and ensuring that when an emergency does occur, we are prepared to deliver water quickly, efficiently, and safely.