What is a fire hydrant's primary purpose?

The primary purpose of a fire hydrant is to provide a reliable source of water for fire suppression. In the event of a fire, firefighters need immediate access to water to extinguish flames effectively and minimize damage. Fire hydrants are strategically placed throughout urban and suburban areas to ensure that firefighters can quickly connect hoses and access water when combating fires.

While marking hazardous areas, controlling traffic around emergencies, and detecting smoke are important considerations during emergency responses, they are not the primary function of fire hydrants. Fire hydrants are specifically designed for fire control and supply, making them a critical component of fire safety infrastructure.