What is the minimum diameter main allowed for hydrants used for fire protection in the State of Georgia?

The minimum diameter main allowed for hydrants used for fire protection in the State of Georgia is 6 inches. This standard is primarily based on ensuring adequate water flow to support firefighting operations. Fire hydrants must be connected to sufficient water supply mains to facilitate effective firefighting efforts, which typically require a quick and substantial volume of water.

A 6-inch diameter main can provide an acceptable flow rate that meets the needs of fire suppression activities. Anything smaller may not deliver the necessary water pressure and volume needed to combat various sizes of fires efficiently. In practice, this requirement assures that in emergencies, sufficient water can be accessed quickly to safeguard lives and property. Additionally, adopting this minimum size helps create consistency across fire protection infrastructure within the state, ensuring that systems are capable of functioning effectively during critical situations.