A dry hydrant is a non-pressurized pipe with a fire department connection installed at a pond, stream or underground water storage tank. Dry hydrants provide firefighters quick access to water in rural areas because the piping and connection are already in place, saving precious time during a fire when the need to replenish firefighting water supplies is critical.
Dry hydrants are required to be installed as a condition of certain development in Loudoun County. They may also be installed by a homeowner. In some instances, partial grants are available to help offset the cost of materials.
Insurance Services Office Inc. recognizes the use of dry hydrants in Loudoun County and includes those sites with tank capacities of 30,000 gallons or more in the overall PPC rating.