THE SUNDAY PREACH

Are you planning for success or for failure?

"The key for the engine company to bring water to
each and every reported and actual residential fire is
several fold and begins with correct behavior. Every
single engine company, from the first arriving to the
last one on the final alarm, must come into the game
with finding and delivering water as a priority." Chapter 16, Pg.167

It is does not matter what acronym, mnemonic , or catchy phrase you may pledge allegiance to the one constant in being successful in extinguishing fires and saving lives is putting water on the fire. This success hinges on implementing the right steps prior to pushing down that hallway to the seat of the fire and the first is ensuring you have a continuous water supply.

Do you have a plan for water supply on every fire-related call you run or are you simply being reactive and hoping you are successful? Hatching the plan around the firehouse kitchen table is the start and getting out and demonstrating the plan getting your sets and reps by training will ensure your success.

Some quick questions to get the ball rolling discussing water supply with your fellow Engine company members to ensure all are on the same page:

- If you perform a split lay at the end of the block or at a long driveway, who completes the connection between the two supply lines?

- If you typically have the second arriving engine pick up the first engine's water supply what will the second engine do when the first engine takes their own water? Find another water supply, abandon the piece and engage in the firefight? Why?

- If you arrive with a ladder truck and have a well advanced fire and make the tactical decision to hit the fire with an elevated master stream what role will each member of the engine company take to get water to the ladder truck? How quickly can you get a water supply and water to the device?

Just a few questions that should stimulate good tactical discussion and an opportunity to go out and train for success.