Which type of hydrant has water in the barrel and separate valves for each of the discharges?

The wet barrel hydrant is characterized by having water in the barrel at all times, allowing immediate access to water when needed. This design features separate valves for each discharge, which means that firefighters can operate each outlet independently without affecting the others. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas where multiple hoses might be used simultaneously.

The distinction of having water continuously available in the barrel makes wet barrel hydrants suitable for areas that do not experience freezing temperatures, as the water can remain liquid without the need for specific freeze protection mechanisms. In contrast, other types of hydrants, such as dry barrel hydrants, do not hold water in the barrel to prevent freezing, which would make them unsuitable for situations requiring immediate water access.

Understanding this helps in identifying the best practices for using hydrant systems in firefighting situations, particularly in areas that require rapid response capabilities.