14

Essentials of Fire Fighting6th Edition

Firefighter I

Chapter 14 — Water Supply

Explain the ways water supply system components are used by firefighters.

Learning Objective 1

14–2

There are two types of water supply systems firefighters use.

14–3

Water supply sources are found in a variety of locations.

14–4

The amount of water needed from a supply source considers several factors.

14–5

Water treatment or processing facilities remove impurities in water.

14–6

The means of moving water depends on the original source for the water.

14–7

(Cont.)


14–8

(Cont.)


14–9

REVIEW QUESTION

What are the three main means of moving water used by firefighters?

14–10

Piping is an important aspect of the water distribution and storage system.

14–11

Storage tanks are also another component in the system.

14–12

Isolation and control valves use several methods to interrupt water flow.

14–13

Isolation valves are used to isolate sections of the water supply system.

14–14

Control valves are located between public and private systems.

14–15

Fire hydrant locations vary depending on the water system.

14–16

Friction loss and locations can affect volume and pressure.

14–17

REVIEW QUESTION

How do the main components of water distribution and storage

systems operate?

14–18

Describe types of fire hydrants and hydrant markings.


14–19

Fire hydrants, while a dependable water source, can fail.

14–20

There are several commonalities in hydrants a firefighter may encounter.

14–21

Dry- and wet-barrel hydrants are designed for different climates.

14–22

REVIEW QUESTION

What are the main types of fire hydrants?

14–23

Fire hydrant markings can be used to designate flow capacity.

14–24

Explain fire hydrant operation and inspection considerations.


14–25

Hydrant operation and inspection requires specific knowledge.

14–26

Some potential problems may be present during hydrant inspections.

14–27

REVIEW QUESTION

How does the operation of a dry- barrel hydrant compare to that of a wet-barrel hydrant?

14–28

Explain alternative water supply sources and methods of access.


14–29

Alternative water supply sources can be found in a variety of places.

14–30

Drafting operations may be required to access alternative water supplies.

14–31

REVIEW QUESTION

When should alternative water supplies be identified?

14–32

Describe methods used for rural water supply operations.


14–33

Rural water supply operations require planning and practice.

14–34

The water shuttle method transfers water to tanks for use.

14–35

There are several key components in a water shuttle operation.

14–36

Portable tank types require specific set up guidelines.

14–37

Water supply volume is calculated on several variables.

14–38

You must know ways to use and regulations for water supply apparatus.

14–39

Use of self-filling vacuum mobile apparatus has increased.

14–40

Relay pumping is used when the water source is close enough to the fire scene.

14–41

REVIEW QUESTION

What are the common operations for accessing rural water supplies?

14–42

• Because water is the primary fire extinguishing agent used by firefighters, and because fires often occur considerable distances from major water sources, fire departments must develop ways to transport the available water from its source to the place it is needed.

Summary

14–43

(Cont.)

• Firefighters must be familiar with the water supply systems in their response areas.

• They must know about water sources, pumping systems, gravity systems, and the system of underground water mains used to distribute the water.

Summary

14–44

(Cont.)

• They must also know how to inspect, maintain, and operate the fire hydrants in their jurisdictions.

Summary

14–45

Operate a hydrant.

This objective is measured in Skill Sheet 14-I-1.


14–46

Make soft-sleeve and hard-suction hydrant connections.



14–47

Connect and place a hard-suction hose for drafting from a static water source.



14–48

Deploy a portable water tank.



14–49

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