WSSC gets patent for Universal Fire Hydrant Tool

WSSC Water has received a patent from the United States Patent Office for its Universal Fire Hydrant Tool, developed by employees to simplify maintenance and repairs. The one tool replaces many tools needed by WSSC Water crews to repair five different types of hydrants in a network of 42,000 hydrants strategically positioned throughout a 1,000-square-mile distribution system.

“Fire hydrants are crucial to protecting public health and safety,” said WSSC Water General Manager and CEO Carla A. Reid. “This one tool will allow our crews to more quickly and efficiently make repairs to hydrants - safeguarding our customers and saving money. The Universal Fire Hydrant Tool and this patent represent our commitment to fostering and maintaining an innovative, can-do culture here at WSSC Water.”