This is theory vs. reality issue. To flow 1000 gpm in a building either the
FD needs to have 4-5 2-1/2" lines in operation or about 8-9 1-3/4". Each
line takes 3-4 people to staff or one company. So the optimistic case with
the rare FD set up with 2-1/2" lines 4 companies on the lines, plus at least
2 interior search and rescue, one outside to rescue FF if need be. Now we
need to add all their replacements for when they run out of air and for them
to get rest. So conservatively triple the number of working units to keep 4
lines in operation. And if you ever handled 2-1/2" hose under fire
condition really 2 companies per line is necessary if you actually try to
advance the hose. So IMHO 19 companies plus any logistical support is the
minimum to sustain 1000 gpm in a building. There are very, very few places
that could do this, even with mutual aid.
Then there is another discussion about where exactly do you put 1000 gpm.
If the fire is that big you got to start asking what are you doing inside
the building.
So theory is plan for 1000 gpm, reality is the human element can't or
shouldn't pull it off. I'm sure someone will give an example of where it
was done but these will be few and far between. I'd limit guesses to FDNY,
BFD, Philly, Houston, Dallas, Miami, LA, SFFD, Chicago and at best a few
other big cities. Neither Minneapolis nor St. Paul IMHO could do it, maybe
working together, maybe. And they are like top 60 sized cities in the US.
I'll admit another bias of mine. If the sprinklers don't control it or the
first line doesn't get it the FD is just putting on a show for the public.
Or at least with regards to the building of origin. For you other FF out
there how many times did you give yourselves a high five for a great save
only to see the dozers the next day.
Chris Cahill, P.E.
Fire Protection Engineer
Sentry Fire Protection, Inc.
763-658-4483
763-658-4921 fax
Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Mail: P.O. Box 69
Waverly, MN 55390
Location: 4439 Hwy 12 SW
Waverly, MN 55390
-----Original Message-----
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Greg McGahan
Sent: Wednesday, April 11, 2007 7:14 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Manual wet standpipes
Along these same lines, why doesn't the code dictate FDC sizes based on
system demand?
For instance if there is one FDC feeding 3 standpipes I believe that 14
should require a minimum of a 3 way FDC to eliminate confusion and argument.
Greg
Living Water Fire Protection, LLC
1160 McKenzie Road
Cantonment, FL 32533
850-937-1850
Fax: 850-937-1852
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