Improving Skills in Water Application

Putting water on the fire quickly remains the best way to suppress almost all fires. It is one reason automatic sprinklers are so effective. They catch the fire while it is small enough to be controlled with minimal water.

Water application may also be the best way to effect a rescue. It also improves firefighter safety by not only making conditions better but also shortening exposure time. Studies continue to show that conditions inside the structure improve dramatically when the environment is cooled. One feature of water is that it absorbs a great deal of heat when converting to steam. Of course, the steam can cause discomfort to interior firefighters. The key to being successful is applying the right amount of water in the quickest possible way. This is true whether you are in the offensive or defensive mode or in a transitional attack.

Water application involves a source, pump (unless you are still in the bucket brigade mode!), hoses and appliances, staffing, and the skill level of firefighting companies. Engine companies are generally tasked with water application, especially in the early stages of a fire. Trucks may assume the role, particularly in defensive operations. Essentially, the challenge is to overcome the Btus being generated by the fire. In the fire growth model, the fire begins in the incipient stage and builds to its peak and then deteriorates. There can be a vent-limited phase and explosive fire growth in modern fires with modern contents. Regardless, the point is that water application must match the phase of the fire. In some cases, the fire can be extinguished during the growth phase and in others the declining phase. Getting the right amount of water in the moments that matter will be the determinant.

TRAINING

Anyone who has ever read any of my columns on a regular basis knows that I think training is the most important aspect of any operation, and the more an organization commits to regular, quality training, the better the outcomes regardless of which part of the job you are involved in. For water delivery, it requires competence in hose deployment, nozzle usage, and appliances. The size of the hose, including attack and supply lines, is an important consideration. Staffing will also affect operations including efficiencies. One question to ask yourself is, “How long can I expect it to take to get water flowing from the various lines carried on the engine?” There must be an established standard, and crews must be held to that standard. This varies by line size and staffing. For example, more people are required to advance a 2½-inch line than a 1¾-inch line. If maneuverability is an issue, this has to be considered in the decision making. This would also apply to supply lines. If a good estimate is made, better decisions will be made. The choices can vary based on the amount of fire showing, water needs, and the time needed to deploy lines. A smaller line may make sense based on these factors and the need to be more mobile in moving lines. If you know some of t