This performance measure assesses the performance and reliability of the fire hydrants to provide water for firefighting, an essential safety function. The Water Bureau owns over 14,500 fire hydrants and has set a target of 99.5% or higher for this measure. Trends in this measure can guide the Water Bureau to adjust inspection and replacement rates of fire hydrants.

Water Bureau has set a target of 99.5% for this measure, meaning 99.5% or more of the fire hydrants should be in service at any given time. Between FY 2020-21 and FY 2022-23, the actual values show that the Water Bureau has exceeded the target. This measure is tracked on a weekly basis internally and the Water Bureau is in the process of integrating the data into an internal dashboard that also considers the spatial distribution of out of service hydrant statuses across the service area with an equity lens.

Out of service fire hydrants are either identified by Water Bureau staff (as part of scheduled inspections or during other field work) or reported to the Water Bureau by Portland Fire & Rescue or the public. Every week, the out of service hydrant counts are used to calculate the ratio of the “total number of in service hydrants” to the “total number of fire hydrants” in the distribution system.  For the annual budget performance reporting, the weekly values are averaged for the past fiscal year.

Learn how to report other water quality and pressure concerns and questions at the Portland Water Bureau website. Learn more about how fire hydrants are also an essential part of delivering safe, clean, delicious water to your tap. Portlanders can report leaks or water service disruptions and problems to the water service emergency line at 503-823-4874, available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week; use the PDX Reporter app or website; and contacting 311.