What is the primary reason for checking hydrants annually?

The primary reason for checking hydrants annually is to ensure they are accessible. This is crucial because, in an emergency situation, firefighters need to quickly locate and utilize fire hydrants without any obstacles hindering their access. Accessibility can be affected by physical barriers, such as vehicles parked too close or landscaping overgrowth, which may impede the ability to connect hoses efficiently.

Annual checks help fire departments identify and mitigate any access issues before they become critical during a fire response, ensuring that firefighters can secure water supply promptly when needed. Ensuring accessibility directly supports effective firefighting operations and enhances overall community safety.

While the other options relate to important aspects of fire hydrant maintenance and fire safety, they do not address the immediate necessity of accessing the hydrants during emergencies, making accessibility the priority.