Firefighting Pump Operations Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the recommended action to take if the weather is below freezing during operations?

Disengage the water recirculation system

Leave the truck in neutral to prevent freezing

Keep the pump gear engaged and recirculate water (correct)

Add antifreeze to the pump system

What is a sign that the pump may be experiencing cavitation?

High water pressure

Increased fuel consumption

Reduced engine power

A sound resembling sand in the pump (correct)

What must be done after draining sediment from the pump?

Inspect the pump for damages.

Refill the pump with water. (correct)

Replace the pump entirely.

Engage the engine brake.

What operational state should the engine brake be in when not on slick roads?

Engaged at the highest setting Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of 'dead heading' the pump?

Cavitation and overheating Signup and view all the answers

To prevent freezing in smaller lines during cold weather, what must be ensured?

Draining the turret and booster line Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the tank-to-pump line during freezing weather operations?

Leave it cracked to allow for recirculation Signup and view all the answers

When is it appropriate to completely drain the pump?

When freezing conditions are anticipated Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct pressure at which to pump a 1-3/4 inch handline?

160 psi Signup and view all the answers

If you are pumping over 1000gpm, what restriction is placed on the movement of the nozzle?

It cannot be pointed upwards. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to prevent the pump from building up pressure while driving?

Keep the tank to pump open and the tank fill line cracked. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum pressure for the ground monitor on Ladder 1?

175 psi Signup and view all the answers

How is the pressure adjusted when pumping a 2-1/2 inch handline with a smoothbore nozzle?

Set to 78 psi. Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial action during emergency response operations while pumping?

Ensuring proactive equipment deployment. Signup and view all the answers

What must be remembered when pumping under 1000gpm?

There is full range of motion of the nozzle. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements regarding the combination nozzle is correct?

It should be set to 120 psi when in use. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum intake pressure that should not be dropped below when catching a hydrant?

20 psi Signup and view all the answers

What pressure should a 1.75 inch preconnected handline be pumped at to achieve a flow of 150 gallons per minute?

160 psi Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate pump discharge pressure for a 2.5 inch smoothbore preconnected handline to achieve a flow of 265 gallons per minute?

68 psi Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken to prevent damage to equipment after pumping is completed?

Drain the ladder pipe Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions should be taken to assess a loss of water problem?

Check water supply source Signup and view all the answers

What is the necessary preparation before starting the vent fan operation?

Check for obstacles around the setup area Signup and view all the answers

Which tool should be prepared in the front yard for emergency deployment?

RIT pack Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of cavitation in a pump system?

Loss of pressure Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pumping Operations

Drain the ladder pipe after pumping to prevent equipment damage during retraction.
Maintain intake pressure above 20 psi when hooking up to a hydrant as per PUC manual.
Pump discharge pressure should be set at 160 psi at this station; adjust valve for correct pressure if using a 2-1/2 inch handline.
Use correct nozzle opening to achieve desired pressure on the 2-1/2 inch handline.

Skills and Equipment

Operate vent fan: ensure proper setup and checks before use.
Practice single-man ladder raises using 24’ extension or roof ladder for accessing windows or rooftops.
Prepare essential tools including RIT pack, stokes basket, and possibly K12 saw for deployment.
For small handlines (1.75 inch), pump at 160 psi to achieve 150 gallons per minute.
For 2.5 inch smoothbore preconnect, pump at 68 psi to achieve 265 gallons per minute.

Emergency Procedures

Identify loss of water issues; use chains and wheel system for tire traction.
Disable engine brake in slick conditions to avoid skids; otherwise, operate at maximum settings for stability.
Regularly drain pump to remove sediment but ensure refilling for operation.

Pumping Challenges

Avoid cavitation by ensuring RPMs and pressure are aligned; listen for abnormal sounds like grinding.
Prevent overheating by ensuring water circulation; do not deadhead pumps to avoid damage to impeller.
Maintain water flow to prevent boiling temperatures that can damage equipment.

Cold Weather Operations

In freezing conditions, switch truck to pump gear and recirculate water; alternatively, drain pump and lines entirely.
Ensure turret and booster lines are drained to prevent freezing, while keeping the pump filled with water.

Engine Operator Training

Focus on driver responsibilities during fire pumping scenarios, including setting up vent fans and transporting tools.
Practice skills without command awareness for proactive response.
Establish pumping pressures during drills: 1-3/4 inch handlines at 160 psi for 150 GPM; 2-1/2 inch handlines at 78 psi for smoothbore, 120 psi for combination nozzles.
Keep tank to pump line open and tank fill line cracked to avoid pressure buildup during travel.

Pressure Guidelines

Maximum pressure for ground monitor on Ladder 1 is 175 psi, with smoothbore tips operating comfortably between 80-110 psi.
Ladder pipe can withstand up to 200 psi.
Maintain full range of motion for nozzles below 1000 GPM; restrictions apply for flows over 1000 GPM.

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Description

Test your knowledge on effective firefighting pump operations, including crucial procedures for draining equipment and managing intake pressure. This quiz covers guidelines from the PUC manual, pump discharge settings, and handling multiple handlines. Perfect for those in the firefighting profession or training.