Which is one of the component parts of a dry-barrel fire hydrant?

• A. Separate valves for each outlet
• B. Automatic check
• C. Post Indicator Valve
• D. Drain hole

Answer: (D)

Dry-barrel hydrants are built so the main shutoff is below ground and the barrel stays dry when not in use. After a hydrant is opened and then closed, any water left in the barrel needs a way to drain out so the remaining water won’t freeze in cold weather. The drain hole provides that outlet, letting the water that’s in the hydrant drain away after use. If that drain hole is blocked, water can stay in the barrel and freeze, which is why this feature is essential for dry-barrel designs.

The other options aren’t part of the hydrant’s basic dry-barrel design. Separate valves for each outlet aren’t a defining component of all hydrants, automatic checks are features of backflow or piping systems, and a Post Indicator Valve is a control on the main supply line, not a component of the hydrant itself.