When Is a Fire Pump Required?

When fire fighters hook a hose up to a hydrant, the normal flow of the city's water system provides the pressure for the hose to work properly. A fire pump is used in situations where there is not adequate water pressure.

Sprinklers

• Fire pumps are sometimes used in the sprinkler system or other fire protection systems of a building. Even in urban areas with a good water system, pressure may be insufficient to move water to higher floors.

Rural

• In isolated or rural areas where there is no standard water system, water tanks with attached pumps are commonly used. This is especially common for industrial facilities where fire systems are mandated for public and employee safety.

Pools

• Fire pumps have been developed that can draw water from swimming pools or similar water sources for fire fighting purposes. These are most common in areas where there is a high risk of forest fires or where there is no city water system.