Orange hydrants have a GPM of

• A. 1500+
• B. 1000 - 1500
• C. 500 - 999
• D. 0 - 500

Answer: (C)

Hydrant color codes are used to signal the approximate amount of water a hydrant can deliver, helping crews quickly estimate supply on scene. An orange hydrant indicates a mid-range flow, roughly 500 to 999 gallons per minute. This guidance helps you choose appropriate hose sizes, set nozzle pressures, and assess whether you need additional water sources or larger lines to stay within safe friction losses. Higher-flow hydrants would be in the upper color categories, while lower-flow ones fall into the lower category, and orange sits squarely in the middle.