MFRD’s Annual Hydrant Testing Begins this Month

In March of every year, Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department takes on the task of flow testing all of the hydrants in the city of Murfreesboro.

Over the next six months, MFRD personnel will test and perform minor maintenance on over 5,500 hydrants.

MFRD is required by the Insurance Services Office (ISO) to flush hydrants annually and maintain records on those hydrants. MFRD conducts annual pressure tests as well.

Any major repair or maintenance issues are reported to the respective water departments at the time they are discovered. Flow testing annually helps to identify these issues before they become a problem on a fire scene.

“Annual testing of these hydrants is important because it helps us make sure each hydrant is in proper working order with good pressure,” said Assistant Chief of Operations Kaye Jernigan. “This helps us to ensure that they are operational when we need them the most.”

Businesses and residents in the city can help MFRD personnel year round by eliminating or reporting any obstructions around hydrants on their property.

The 2012 International Fire Code states the following:

507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.

507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.

Businesses and residents who have overgrown vegetation or other forms of hydrant obstruction will receive letters from MFRD’s Community Risk Reduction Division giving them 48 hours to remedy the issue.

If you receive a letter and have questions, please contact MFRD Administration Monday-Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm at 615-893-1422.