Don’t hide your hydrant
We work with Fire and Rescue NSW and the NSW Rural Fire Service to maintain around 50,000 water hydrants in the region, ensuring they are visible, accessible and working.
What to do if you see a damaged hydrant
Make sure you regularly keep grass and other obstructions away from hydrants. If you notice a hydrant that is damaged or requires repainting, please contact us on 1300 657 000.
Frequently asked questions
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What is a water hydrant?
Firefighters use water hydrants to access the water supply in the case of a fire. They’re also used by our field crews for maintenance purposes.
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Where are hydrants located?
Water hydrants are placed below ground, with their lids located on the road or footpath. In urban areas, water hydrants are usually positioned along one side of the street about 120 metres apart, and in rural areas, they are located around 220 metres apart.
The proximity of a water hydrant is identified by small indicator signs on posts, telegraph poles or along the shoulder of the road or gutter.
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What does a hydrant look like?
Water hydrants can be identified by their bright yellow, cast iron, square-shaped lids that have a capital 'H' on the top. This assists firefighters to quickly identify them.
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Why are hydrants important?
During an emergency, such as a bushfire or house fire, it is important to know where the water hydrant is located. Having clear access to a water hydrant can impact how quickly you’re able to bring an emergency under control.
It is important to ensure there are no obstructions preventing firefighters from locating and connecting hoses to hydrants, or that the hydrant is not covered by grass or soil.
There should also be no bush or tree limbs that could interfere with anyone approaching the hydrant and attempting to operate it.