How often should private fire hydrants be inspected?

Private fire hydrants should be inspected annually to ensure they are in proper working condition. Regular inspections help identify issues such as leaks, corrosion, and mechanical failures that could hinder the hydrant's performance during an emergency. The annual inspection ensures compliance with safety regulations and local ordinances, which can mandate this frequency to maintain fire safety standards.

While more frequent inspections, such as monthly or quarterly, might seem beneficial for maintaining readiness, they are generally not required unless specified by local fire codes. Annual inspections strike a balance between thoroughness and practicality, allowing enough time to address potential maintenance needs without overburdening the property owner. After each use is primarily relevant for hydrants that are actually used in an emergency, which might require checks for functionality but does not provide a comprehensive preventive maintenance strategy.