What is the purpose of a Fire Department Connection (FDC) during firefighting operations?

• A. To regulate the pressure of the municipal water main.
• B. To provide an additional water supply to a standpipe or sprinkler system during firefighting operations.
• C. To monitor for gas leaks.
• D. To automatically shut down electrical systems.

Answer: (B)

The Fire Department Connection is used to supply an additional water source to a building’s standpipe or sprinkler system during firefighting operations. Firefighters connect a pump or other external water supply to the FDC, pushing water into the system to boost overall flow and pressure when the building’s internal supply or pump cannot meet the demand. This helps ensure enough water reaches the standpipes and sprinkler heads to control and extinguish the fire, especially when long hose lays, elevation, or high fire intensity reduce the effectiveness of the building’s own water supply. It is not intended to regulate municipal water pressure, monitor gas leaks, or shut down electrical systems.