Abstract:
The present invention relates to a fire hydrant having, a primary valve (602) and a secondary valve (604). An actuator rod (608) is provided to open and close the valves whereby the actuator rod has an additional structure for allowing air to reach the area of the fire hydrant below the secondary valve. Various embodiments include an actuator rod with openings (626) and hollow portions (624) and configured to provide air from the area of the hydrant above the secondary valve to the area of the hydrant below the secondary valve. In some embodiments of the present invention, a check valve (700) is provided with the actuator rod that is adapted to prevent the flow of fluid in at least one direction.