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Boy Scout color codes fire hydrants for Eagle project

When firefighters in Weatherly tap a hydrant to fight a fire, they’ll know exactly how much water pressure they’ll get, thanks to a teenager working toward his Eagle Scout award.

Chad Obert, of Boy Scout Troop 232, painted 74 fire hydrants around the borough as part of his Eagle Scout project. The fire plugs are color coded based on the pressure they have.

Borough council recognized Obert on Monday night and thanked him for helping the volunteer firefighters in Citizens Fire Co. No. 1.

Fire Chief Donald Weston said there are four general categories for fire hydrants, based on the gallons per minute they produce. Each hydrant is now clearly identifiable, painted red, orange, green or blue.

“That’s a big asset to us as a fire department, because at a quick glance, you know how many gallons per minute you’re going to get,” Weston said.

Obert is the son of Chad and Peggy Obert of Weatherly.

Obert said it took him about three to four weeks to complete the work on the project, going out every time the weather would allow.

Mayor Tom Connors said he saw the high school sophomore out scraping and painting the hydrants.

“I’m sure your mom and dad are proud,” he said.

Mayor Tom Connors presented Boy Scout Chad Obert with a commendation on Monday for completing his Eagle Scout project. CHRIS REBER/TIMES NEWS