According to NFPA 291, what color should hydrant bonnets be painted for those capable of flowing 1500 gallons per minute and higher at 20 psi?

The correct color for hydrant bonnets that are capable of flowing 1500 gallons per minute and higher at 20 psi is light blue, according to NFPA 291. This standard helps to provide a visual identification system for firefighters, simplifying the process of determining available water flow rates quickly during an emergency.

Hydrants painted light blue indicate an excellent flow capacity, which is vital for effective firefighting operations. When firefighters arrive at a scene, the ability to instantly assess the capabilities of water supply sources is crucial, and the color coding system plays a significant role in their preparedness and response strategies.

Each color within this system corresponds to specific flow rates. By designating light blue to indicate high-volume hydrants, NFPA 291 ensures that all responders can quickly and accurately gauge the water supply’s capability, which can significantly impact their firefighting tactics and resource allocation in critical situations.