Urgent Request - Clow Fire Hydrants

The IAFF Department of Health and Safety has been notified by the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois of several incidents at one fire department in which Clow F-2500 fire hydrants have failed. The failures occurred while fire fighters were testing the hydrants and not at actual fire incidents. While testing the hydrant, the stem of the hydrant was ejected from the barrel under extreme pressure. In one case striking a fire fighter in the face and causing severe injuries to his head and neck. The problem appears to be with the hydrant's thrust nut.

The IAFF is trying to determine if these are isolated incidents or if there is a widespread problem. If your fire department has experienced a similar failure please e-mail or fax the IAFF's Department of Health and Safety with details at (202) 737-8418.