KNOW YOUR PRE-CONNECTS
Pre-Connects
Pre-Connects are the heart of an Engine and extinguishing fires. Their purpose is to simplify our initial attack lines and give the Pump Operator an easy-to-recall PDP (pump discharge pressure).
A Pre-Connect is nothing more than a Nozzle and Hose (in varying lengths) pre-connected to an Engine discharge.
In Dallas, we run several Pre-Connects:
Two 1 3/4" Crosslay (typically 250')
One 1 3/4" attack line off the rear of the Engine (typically 250')
One 1" Red Line (200')
Many Engines across the city utilize their rear discharges with "standard" Pre-Connects as well:
One 2 1/2" with 1 1/4" Smooth Bore (on a Spartan), 1 1/8" (on a Pierce) (Typically 200').
One 3" with TFT Blitz Fire (Typically 150-250').
Note that some companies do not pre-connect these lines and leave it to the Driver to "cut the line" once it is in place. He/She would then connect to the Engine discharge.
What You Need To Know...
For any Apparatus you are slated to drive, you MUST know the following:
What nozzle is on the end of the Pre-Connect, and what's the operating pressure?
What diameter hose is being utilized, and how many sections are part of this Pre-Connect?
What is your friction loss for this hose in case you need to shorten or lengthen it on the fire ground?
What the crew typically pumps to each specific Pre-Connect, AND WHY.
🚨 DISCLAIMER: Dallas Fire-Rescue does not endorse or promote these videos. The information herein is my best understanding of the material covered and the subsequent views expressed are my own and not necessarily those DFR. These videos are strictly for educational purposes only. It is critical that you follow your department's MOP/SOP, and talk with your Station Officer (and crew) before implementing anything you see here on The Roll Steady.
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PUMP SCHOOL W/ RICK BREWER
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