How Many Preconnects Is Too Many?

Departments preferring static hose loads and reverse lays are not included in this discussion. Their method of firefighting is accepted without comment. Many departments use 1½-, 1¾-, and two-inch preconnects for initial attack, probably flowing less than 200 gallons per minute (gpm). Preconnects allow flexibility and a wide choice of options on the fireground. They’re fast and easy to deploy with limited staffing. Preconnects shouldn’t be limited to attack lines. It is irrelevant if the engine company using them is career-staffed. What is important is the number of firefighters on that first rig and how long it takes for more to arrive.

Two Perspectives

I address preconnects from two perspectives. One is when a real pumper is designed specifically for firefighting where the primary and possibly sole purpose is humping hose. The other is when a multifunction rig is first due and its limited space may be prioritized for nonpumper functions. Rescue-pumpers, tanker-pumpers, or quints might only have a bare minimum of preconnects and supply hose let alone what is recommended, desired, or actually needed. My dissertation is restricted to real pumpers. The quantity, lengths, diameters, flows, and purpose of preconnects should be based on each district’s physical characteristics. Single-story 1,000-square-foot ranch houses and wide residential streets require different tactics than densely populated areas with side-by-side 2½-story wood frames, mixed commercial and industrial areas, narrow streets, and inclement weather (snow).

The Backup Line

In the latter scenario, I prefer a choice of 150-, 200-, and 250-foot preconnected attack lines. My next preference reflects my old-school belief in having preconnected backup lines one size larger flowing at least 250 gpm. If the first line can’t handle it or fireground conditions turn to hell in a handbasket, I don’t want a backup line with the same limited capabilities as the first. The crew could be in trouble and need help. I want big water and I want it fast. Hopefully, the pump operator has already flaked one out on the front lawn and charged it. The 250-gpm line can be used for initial attack when situations warrant. And, there should be more than one.

I don’t always agree with the doctrine that the second line pulled should be an attack line stretched to the floor above the fire. But if that’s your procedure, preconnect it and make sure it’s 50 feet longer than the first one. Bear in mind that it can’t effectively function as a backup line when it’s located above the fire floor.

Preconnect Lengths

If all preconnects are the same length, the initial attack is limited to that distance from the engine. I favor a preconnected “long line” of 200 feet of 2½-inch with a conical reducer and 200 feet of 1¾-inch. The original concept was using a 2½-inch playpipe with the 1¾-inch attached to it. However, the playpipe’s handles impeded stretches, and its bail could get kicked shut as could a leader line wye’s handles. Pump pressure is within reason because of the lower friction loss in the 2½-inch. And, any preconnect can be broken down and used pi