According to the NFPA 291 standard, what does a red color-coded fire hydrant indicate about its flow capacity?

In the context of the NFPA 291 standard, the color-coded fire hydrant system serves as an essential tool for firefighters to quickly assess the flow capacity of a hydrant during an emergency. A red color-coded fire hydrant specifically designates a flow capacity of less than 500 gallons per minute (gpm). This information is critical for firefighters when determining whether a particular hydrant can provide sufficient water supply for firefighting operations. If a hydrant is marked red, it signals to firefighters that they may need to look for additional or alternative water sources, as this lower flow capacity may not meet the demands of a larger fire or emergency situation. Understanding these color codes helps ensure effective and timely firefighting efforts.