Joseph A. Floyd, Sr.,
Assistant Chief
Columbia (SC) Fire Department
Response: The Columbia Fire Department is using 134-inch attack lines on all of its first-line engines. We have had good success with 134-inch lines, but we have also had our problems. The department uses automatic nozzles with 134-inch hose. One problem we encountered is that the lines have been difficult to handle at the desired gpm because of the nozzle reaction. At times, it is difficult to determine if all the moving parts in the automatic nozzles are working properly. Good training and maintenance programs can eliminate many of these problems.
There have also been times when firefighters thought they were getting a good flow only to find out that the flow was insufficient. We have been experimenting with eight low-pressure nozzles and have had good results in maintaining the desired gpm flow, and with manageable nozzle reaction. We have been getting the maneuverability we want in an attack line as well as the volume of flow at a nozzle reaction that firefighters can handle.
Many of the firefighters who have used the low-pressure nozzles on the 134-inch lines feel that they would also be ideal for use in high-rise buildings because of the high flow and low pressure. The department still carries 212-inch handlines on most of its engines and has used them for high-volume attacks and quick knockdowns. After the quick knockdown, smaller handlines are then put in use. If the experiment with the low-pressure works out, we may be able to limit the use of our 212-inch handlines. We still carry 112-inch attack lines on all our reserve engines but not on our front-line engines.
