Overcoming Low-Flow and Dead Hydrants with a Four-Way Hydrant Valve
Overcoming Low-Flow and Dead Hydrants with a Four-Way Hydrant Valve
“One of the most stressful scenarios that any firefighter could face is performing any lay from a hydrant that ends up being dead or low flow.
Andy Soccodato – The Water Thieves Instructor
How to Maintain Water Supply When a Hydrant Fails
Imagine pulling up to a hydrant, expecting full pressure, only to discover it’s a dead hydrant or has insufficient flow. No pressure. No water. Now what?
A four-way hydrant valve, like the Oasis Hydrant Assist Valve, is your go-to solution. It allows firefighters to quickly establish an alternative water source without disrupting operations. In this guide, we’ll break down how to overcome a low-flow hydrant or a dead hydrant using the four-way valve.
What is a Low-Flow or Dead Hydrant?
A low-flow hydrant doesn’t provide enough water to meet fire suppression needs, while a dead hydrant has no flow at all. These issues can result from poor infrastructure, system pressure limitations, or mechanical failures.
Why It Matters
Key Steps to Overcome a Low-Flow or Dead Hydrant with a Four-Way Valve
1. Identify the Hydrant Issue Immediately
The hydrant firefighter flushes the hydrant to check flow.
If no water or low pressure is present, signal the team immediately.
Attach the four-way hydrant valve to the faulty hydrant.
2. Alert the Incident Commander
Quickly report the issue and identify a backup water source.
Determine the nearest functioning hydrant, drafting site, or tanker relay.
3. Perform a Reverse Lay to a Good Hydrant
A second engine reverse lays from the dead or low-flow hydrant.
The hose is connected to the relay pumper port on the four-way valve.
The supply line is laid out to a good hydrant or alternate water source.
4. Establish a Reliable Water Supply
Once the second engine charges the line, water enters the four-way valve.
The internal clapper valve adjusts, allowing water to reach the fire scene.
The attack pumper continues operations without interruption.
5. Ensure Fireground Safety
Secure hose connections to prevent unexpected tension hazards.
Monitor for pressure fluctuations and adjust as necessary.
Keep the IC and crew updated on the water supply status.
Train for hydrant failures just as you train for fire attacks. A dead hydrant doesn’t mean a dead operation if you act fast.
Why This Technique is Essential for Firefighting Operations
Equipment You’ll Need
To execute this maneuver effectively, you’ll need:
Download Your Low-Flow 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: Delaying the Switch to a Backup Hydrant
If flow is weak, transition immediately.
Mistake 2: Disconnecting Lines Prematurely
The four-way valve allows a seamless switch without shutting down flow.
Mistake 3: Failing to Communicate Quickly
The sooner command knows, the faster a backup plan is executed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
After-Action Review: Mastering Low-Flow and Dead Hydrant Operations
Here’s what to remember:
