In situations where the water supply is low, what action can a pump operator take?

In situations where the water supply is low, switching to a secondary water source is a critical action a pump operator can take. This approach helps to mitigate the risk of inadequate water supply during firefighting operations. A secondary water source could include nearby hydrants, bodies of water like lakes or rivers, or even portable water tanks set up in the field. Utilizing these additional sources is essential in maintaining adequate water flow for firefighting efforts, especially when the primary source is not sufficient.

While increasing the RPM of the pump, closing off some discharge lines, or reducing the intake pressure may seem like feasible actions, they do not directly address the issue of a low water supply. In fact, increasing RPM might exacerbate the problem by creating more demand on a limited supply, while closing off discharge lines can reduce water available to those in need. Reducing intake pressure might lead to further complications in maintaining an effective water flow. Therefore, the most effective and proactive approach in a low water supply scenario is to seek and switch to a secondary water source.