What is the NFPA color code for a hydrant flowing 500 to 999 gpm?

What is the NFPA color code for a hydrant flowing 500 to 999 gpm?

• A. Red
• B. Orange
• C. Green
• D. Light Blue

Answer: (B)

Color coding on hydrants is a quick way to gauge water flow capacity. The orange color indicates a flow range of about 500 to 999 gallons per minute, which matches the given 500–999 gpm. This helps firefighters decide early whether a single hydrant might meet demand or if additional sources or pumping will be needed. Other colors represent different flow bands (red for under 500 gpm, green for around 1000–1499 gpm, light blue for 1500 gpm and up), though exact ranges can vary by jurisdiction.

Color coding on hydrants is a quick way to gauge water flow capacity. The orange color indicates a flow range of about 500 to 999 gallons per minute, which matches the given 500–999 gpm. This helps firefighters decide early whether a single hydrant might meet demand or if additional sources or pumping will be needed. Other colors represent different flow bands (red for under 500 gpm, green for around 1000–1499 gpm, light blue for 1500 gpm and up), though exact ranges can vary by jurisdiction.