Every Fire Department has a couple of water sources (ponds, streams, rivers, etc.) in their territory that could be a great asset while responding to a fire scene nearby. The trouble with some of these water sources is that some aren't deep enough to allow the suction hose and strainer to be submerged and having sufficient distance between the strainer and the bottom of the water source. This situation may lead to small pebbles, gravel, small rocks, etc. to be drawn into the pump, possibly causing expensive damage to the pump and also possible damaging the seals on the ball valves on the unit.
One option to help alleviate this situation would be the use of a floating strainer. The floating strainer floats on the surface of the water, alleviating the need for the strainer and suction hose to be fully submerged. However, if the water source isn't deep enough to allow suitable distance between the strainer and the bottom of the water source then the potential of collecting debris into the pump is still possible.
Another option that could be used is to position a roof ladder above the water source horizontally. The suction hose could then be tied to the ladder at a location that would keep the suction hose from being fully submerged, thusly keeping the strainer above the bottom of the water source.
Another similar option is to submerge a bucket or pail into the water source so that the top of the water source is above the top of the bucket. The strainer would then be placed into the bucket. The water would then be drawn from the top, reducing the chances of debris being drawn into the pump.
Taking precautions, as noted above, will help you utilize all of the assets in your territory in your efforts in protecting your department's service area while keeping costly pump repairs at a minimum.
What steps does your department take when drafting from a shallow water source?
No comments:
Post a Comment