According to NFPA Standard 24, what is the minimum distance between the center of a fire hydrant hose outlet and the finished grade of the ground around the hydrant?

The minimum distance between the center of a fire hydrant hose outlet and the finished grade of the ground around the hydrant is specified to be eighteen inches according to NFPA Standard 24. This requirement is established to ensure that firefighters can easily access and connect hoses to the hydrant, facilitating efficient water delivery during emergencies. Maintaining this height prevents issues such as water pooling at the hydrant base, which could obstruct access and cause delays in response times.

This measurement also helps to standardize hydrant installations across various locations, providing uniformity for emergency responders who may operate in different jurisdictions. Thus, the specified eighteen-inch height is critical for operational efficiency and safety during firefighting efforts.