A typical Storz connection 

"Storz" Connections:

All public and private hydrants installed after July 2004 are required to be fitted with a Storz connection, as shown in the adjacent photo. The Storz connection is a coupling device that neither has male or female ends connected by screw threads, but interlocking flanges with identical ends so that either end will join the other. All large diameter hose (LDH) on CFD's apparatus have Storz connections on both ends to allow easy and rapid connections between the hydrant and pump.  Important: Painting of the Storz coupling device can negatively impact its operation, so they are not to be painted. 

 

 

Hydrant Painting Requirements:

Privately installed hydrants are required to be "color coded" based on their operational arrangements such as through a water meter, tied to a fire pump, limited water supply, etc. The Charlotte Fire Department requires that private fire hydrants meet the following color codes:

1. Hydrants connected to a public water main through a meter:

• Yellow hydrant with hydrant caps painted green.

2. Hydrants connected to a fire pump:

• Yellow hydrant with hydrant caps painted white.

3. Hydrants limited in their water avaliability:

• Yellow hydrant with hydrant caps painted blue.

4. Hydrants lacking a large diameter hose connection:

• Entire hydrant painted red.

Paint should be a high quality enamel paint. A low quality paint will result in the frequency of application, as well as the ill effects of inclement weather conditions. The Water Supply Coordinator, or the inspector assigned to your project will be able to offer assistance in determining the color requirements.

 

Contact Information:

Paul "Butch" Williams, Water Supply Coordinator

Charlotte Fire Department

441 Beaumont Avenue

Charlotte, North Carolina 28204

Office: 704-353-0469

Fax: 704-336-5190

prwilliams@ci.charlotte.nc.us