New Hydrants Feature Sensors and Streamlined Operation to Save Critical Time in Emergencies
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and national water agency PUB have introduced a “smart” fire hydrant that significantly improves the speed and efficiency of emergency response. Designed with advanced sensors, the new hydrants measure water flow and pressure in real time, allowing for quicker access to water during emergencies—reducing the time it takes by approximately 60%.
This innovation is crucial for life-threatening situations, such as industrial fires, where every second counts. A year-long proof-of-concept trial began on October 26, with a prototype smart hydrant installed along Prince Edward Road. If successful, the agencies plan to expand the use of these hydrants throughout Singapore.
Major Muhammad Shafi’ Rafie, the commander of the Marina Bay Fire Station, highlighted that the trial will focus on evaluating the hydrant’s reliability and the accuracy of its sensors. The new design is compatible with existing hydrant connection fittings, meaning that authorities can replace current hydrants with the new models with minimal disruption. This upgrade involves only minor work and minimal excavation, as the existing underground valves and pit cover access will remain unchanged.
Singapore currently has nearly 23,000 public fire hydrants, with designs that have remained largely the same for the past 40 years. Traditional hydrants require a multi-step process to operate, taking an average of one minute. Firefighters need to lift and remove the pit cover, then use an extendable key to open the underground valve to release water, which can be slowed by rust or soil movement.
The new smart hydrant simplifies this by eliminating the need for adaptors and the cumbersome pit cover. Instead, a single customised spanner is used to operate a control valve on top of the hydrant, allowing firefighters to directly connect their hoses and access water within about 40 seconds. This faster process could make a significant difference in emergency situations.
