Malfunctioning Fire Hydrants Stymie Pennsylvania Firefighters

Earlier this week, firefighters ran into a potentially dangerous situation when they were called to a fire at Standard Forge Products - but weren't able to get water from the hydrants.

The Johnstown Water Authority says it is very uncommon for fire hydrants to malfunction.

Two of the nearby hydrants did not work and production workers were able to put out the fire themselves. City officials have now learned that one of those hydrants was hit by a car and propped back up. As for the other one, the water department is investigating why it would not work. Officials say fire hydrants are inspected often, both visually and manually. In fact, they perform tests at least three times a year.

Dave DiNicola from the Johnstown Water Authority said, Every hydrant in the system is pressure tested annually, flow tested annually and during the winter months winterized to prevent the hydrants from freezing.

Both hydrants have now been fixed. If any in your neighborhood appear to be damaged, the Johnstown Water Authority would like you to contact them as soon as possible.

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