| As new apartment buildings are built in our first due, we make it a priority to visit them multiple times throughout construction so our members can become familiar with the building layout, access points, and fire protection systems before the first emergency call.
During the drill, members deployed portable ladders to determine which windows could be reached with our 16ft, 24ft, and 35ft two-section ladders. Our Tower Ladder was then positioned in both the front parking lot and along Virginia Drive to evaluate aerial access and operational reach to the building.
Squad 88-1 also conducted hydrant testing within the complex, recording a static pressure of 70 PSI and flowing approximately 1,300 GPM with a residual pressure of 45 PSI. Members additionally reviewed the temporary Fire Department Connection (FDC) that will remain in service until the permanent FDC is installed.
Gathering this information ahead of time allows our members to better understand apparatus placement, equipment capabilities, and operational limitations so we are better prepared when responding to future emergencies at this complex. |
