Which two types of fire hydrants are commonly used in the United States?

The selection of steamer (suction) and pumper (discharge) hydrants as the correct types commonly used in the United States is grounded in their specific purposes and functionalities in firefighting operations.

Steamer hydrants, often referred to as suction hydrants, are designed to provide a large volume of water at higher flow rates necessary for firefighting. These hydrants typically have larger outlets, enabling fire trucks to quickly draft water during emergencies. This high-capacity feature is crucial, especially in situations where water demand is critical to controlling large-scale fires.

Pumper hydrants, on the other hand, are equipped with smaller discharge outlets designed primarily to supply water to fire apparatuses for direct use in firefighting efforts. They enable firefighters to tap into the municipal water supply quickly, facilitating rapid deployment of hoses and water delivery to the fire scene.

Understanding these functions illustrates why steamer and pumper hydrants are integral to effective fire response strategies in the United States, aligning with the operational needs of fire departments across various communities.