Overcome a Blocked Hydrant with a Four-Way Valve | Essential Firefighting Tactic
Overcome a Blocked Hydrant with a Four-Way Valve | Essential Firefighting Tactic
“The diagrams in the checklist really helped – we don’t have nearly as many kinks as we used to.”
How to Maintain Water Flow When a Hydrant is Blocked
Imagine arriving at a fire scene only to find a hydrant blocked by a vehicle or another barrier. Running a supply line through a car window might seem like an exciting movie stunt, but in reality, it’s far from practical. The good news? A four-way hydrant valve allows firefighters to navigate around obstacles while maintaining optimal water flow.
This guide will break down how to overcome hydrant obstructions using the four-way valve.
Key Steps to Overcome a Blocked Hydrant with a Four-Way Valve
1. Assess the Obstruction and Hydrant Accessibility
Identify the obstacle preventing direct access to the hydrant.
Determine whether it’s possible to clear the obstruction quickly or if rerouting is required.
If the hydrant is blocked, deploy the four-way hydrant valve as an alternative setup.
2. Configure the Four-Way Hydrant Valve for Rerouting
Option 1: Standard configuration—Attach the hydrant port to the steamer outlet and cap the two fire ports.
Option 2: Alternative setup—Use a hydrant adapter to connect the steamer directly, then attach the four-way valve to the relay pumper port.
3. Establish the Water Supply
Attach the supply line from the four-way valve to the pump intake on the fire engine.
Open the hydrant and ensure water is flowing uninterrupted through the system.
The four-way valve’s internal clapper mechanism will direct water efficiently.
4. Maintain an Open Traffic Lane
By positioning the pumper near the hydrant obstruction, you create space for additional apparatus.
The four-way hydrant valve acts as an elbow, rerouting water without requiring major hose adjustments.
5. Confirm Flow Integrity and Adjust if Necessary
Check for kinks or unnecessary friction loss in the hose layout.
Ensure the clapper valve inside the four-way hydrant valve is correctly directing water.
Maintain communication with the attack engine to verify optimal flow at the fire scene.
Why This Technique is Essential for Firefighting Operations
Equipment You’ll Need for a Successful Forward Lay
To execute this maneuver properly, you’ll need:
Download Your Blocked Hydrant Checklist Now!
– Step-by-Step Guide
– Required Equipment
– Notes Section
– Instructor Bio
What is the Oasis?
The Oasis Hydrant Assist Valve is a versatile 4-way valve designed to enhance firefighting operations by maximizing water supply, pressure, and flow rate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Running Hose Through a Car Window
Creates kinks, pressure loss, and potential liability.
Mistake 2: Forcing Hose Under or Around Barriers
Increases the risk of friction loss and impairs maneuverability.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Alternative Valve Configurations
A four-way hydrant valve provides multiple options to maintain full water supply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
After-Action Review: Mastering Blocked Hydrant Operations
Here’s what to remember:
