Abstract
To produce a sufficient pressure for fire-fighting purposes in water from low-pressure mains, turbine pumps are driven from the gearbox of the road engine, auxiliary pumps being fitted for priming the main pumps. The normal pump pressure employed demands a special quality of hose to ensure that all service requirements are met. The round-thread screw coupling for hose is compared with the instantaneous coupling.
When water supply is inadequate at fires, pumps are inserted “in series” at suitable points in long lines of hose, to bring water over considerable distances. “Collector” working enables water supplies from various sources to be combined, the various lines of hose being joined by “collector boxes” with non-return valves.
Dual-purpose appliances, incorporating a standard chassis with an escape and a small “first-aid” pump and tank, are extremely useful; the pump is sufficient to deal with about 25 per cent of the fires occurring in London. An all-steel turntable ladder, incorporating a number of special features, is also described.
“Special service” calls, to accidents not involving fire, are continually increasing in numbers. Emergency vans, fitted with dynamos and floodlighting equipment, oxy-acetylene cutting plant, etc., have been designed for such accidents. Portable breathing apparatus is also provided, and is often used at actual fires as well as at special service calls.
The leading dimensions of the fire float Massey Shaw are given. The author describes the organization required for mobilizing appliances for attendance at fires; the division of the London area into special districts for fire calls, and the provision of “key” stations; and finally the procedure adopted at fires.
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