Unless you’re a master chef that can safely cook an outdoor feast for friends and family, managing a fire can be extremely difficult and dangerous. This is the main reason why fire hydrants and their associated valves are tested every year (and also after each use) to ensure readiness for the fire department, if and when they are required.
However, not all fire hydrants are located on public property. It’s important to note that if you are a property owner with a fire hydrant on your property (other than a city-owned street hydrant), it is your responsibility (mandated by the Ontario Fire Code and the City of Ottawa) to ensure that the hydrant is tested and in proper working order.
Here at Flow Master, we make sure everything (especially the water) is always running smoothly. Our team of trained and fully certified experts provides thorough inspections of each hydrant and seasonal maintenance. In order to stay on the cutting edge and serve the clients in the best way possible, we also ensure that we stay updated, educated and certified on all necessary techniques.
Due to the fact that Ottawa experiences a particularly frigid time of year, we always recommend an additional inspection during the winter months. This ensures that proper drainage is occurring, which can sometimes be an issue because of the freezing temperatures. When left unchecked, damage from freezing can leave the hydrant inoperable.
Regardless of the season, we at Flow Master follow practices that promote due diligence and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Here is a breakdown of the services we offer:
Summer:
Includes one complete hydrant inspection (done between May and July), which provides a flow test and check of the condition and operation of your hydrant to determine if it meets the requirements of the fire code. This inspection determines the following:
Visible interior, exterior and mechanical operation and condition; Water level and drainage of hydrant Cap, nozzle and other body conditions; Hydrant access,
Flow test and colour code identification; Hydraulic readings (Static and Dynamic pressures); Isolation valve operation, position and accessibility; Inspection report & record keeping meeting city/fire code requirements
Fall :
Includes one inspection in the fall (done between October and December) to ensure the hydrant is ready for the winter, and determines the following items:
Basic fire hydrant and isolation valve inspection; Water level and drainage of hydrant; Pumping out of any water that has accumulated in the barrel (to reduce the chance of freezing); Ensuring that a hydrant marker is in place; Check to ensure the isolation valve is in the fully open position; Check that the isolation valve cap is in place to prevent ice & snow build-up; Reporting of any deficiencies for immediate action.
Winter:
Includes three onsite visits during the winter months (one each in January, February and March) to ensure that the hydrant drains properly and is available for use if required, and determines the following items:
Water level and drainage of hydrant; Pumping out of any water that has accumulated in the barrel (to reduce the chance of freezing); Hydrant marker and access; Reporting of any deficiencies for immediate action
In addition, we provide a full range of hydrant repair and maintenance services that include: complete repair and restoration, valve exercising, water main break repairs and painting/colour coding of fire hydrants as required to meet the fire code, to name a few.
Our goal is always to ensure the safe and proper inspection, maintenance and operation of all hydrants, and the safety and happiness of all clients. Call us today for a customized quote. Discounts available on multiple hydrants and/or locations.
