When a fire happens every second counts, particularly as local fire services arrive on scene and look to set up a water supply and plan the appropriate response, Michael Currie, Director of Water and Wastewater Services told Muskoka’s Engineering and Public Works Committee on April 19.
Committee also heard that concerns have been raised by Muskoka fire departments about the inconsistent ways fire hydrants are marked across the region.
“At the Muskoka Association of Fire Chiefs meeting last October, concerns were raised regarding inconsistencies in the marking of the nearly 2100 fire hydrants we have across the District as no uniform colour scheme has been implemented,” said Currie.
He also said staff looked at the issue and are recommending that the hydrants be marked according to ownership and flow rate following National Fire Protection Association standard 291.
“It’s clear and easily recognizable to firefighters, ensuring they can quickly locate fire hydrants and access the water supply they need to extinguish a fire,” he added.
The fire hydrants would be repainted and tagged accordingly. If approved by council, Curry said the work will be completed during the normal maintenance of the hydrants.
He said fire chiefs in each area municipality would be notified of the changes along with the timing expected for full implementation.
Committee approved the initiative.
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