What is a fire hydrant primarily used for?

A fire hydrant is primarily used to supply hose and fire department connections with water. This function is crucial in fire suppression efforts, as it provides a readily accessible source of water that firefighters can connect their hoses to when battling blazes. Hydrants are strategically placed throughout communities to ensure that firefighters can quickly access water in emergency situations, enabling them to maintain effective pressure and volume needed to extinguish fires efficiently.

While decorative water features and irrigation of landscaping might utilize water, those functions do not align with the primary purpose of a fire hydrant. Similarly, the distribution of water for residential use is typically managed through municipal water systems and not directly associated with the primary role of fire hydrants. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the essential lifesaving role hydrants play in firefighting operations.