Last week we completed the installation of a fixed-pipe dry fire hydrant in a small marina near Annapolis, Maryland. The installation was funded by a local homeowners' association with the intent of providing FD access to fire protection water for a neighborhood with no municipal water system. The installation provided a couple of challenges: a tidal water source and a concern for boat traffic. After assessing the site in late November, it was clear that water depth could be an issue and we did not want to have to bury the pipe since that would involve more environmental permitting requirements and study. The existing pier provided a good option for a fixed-pipe installation if we could run the pipe under the pier...which would also protect the pipe from boat strikes during docking maneuvers.

After a few months of dealing with an angry Mother Nature, nice weather and a low tide prevailed and we were able to complete the installation. We chose to use an ETT Stream Strainer because of its low-profile which will help with water access during excessively low tides. Since the stream strainer has no back-flush capability, we installed a back flow valve (all PVC components) to allow the FD pumper to first back flush the pipe before taking draft. A similar design was used in our Oxford, Maryland installation in 2017.

In the end, the installation was completed in a day and the FD now has quicker access to fire protection water in that neighborhood.