| Drafting is the process of using a fire engine’s pump to draw water from a static water source, such as a pond, lake, portable water tank, or swimming pool, when a fire hydrant is not available or cannot provide enough water. In many parts of our community and neighboring towns, rural areas may not have access to a municipal water system, making drafting a critical firefighting skill.
During training, our members practiced establishing a draft by connecting hard suction hose to the engine, priming the pump to remove air from the system, and creating the vacuum needed to pull water into the apparatus. Once a reliable water supply was established, crews flowed water through attack lines to simulate fireground operations.
One of the key pieces of equipment we train with is the portable water pond carried on our tankers. These collapsible tanks are quickly deployed at the scene of a fire and are filled by water tankers shuttling water from a nearby hydrant or natural water source. As each tanker arrives, it dumps thousands of gallons of water into the portable pond. The engine then drafts from the pond, providing a continuous water supply while additional tankers rotate back and forth to refill. This operation, known as a water shuttle, allows firefighters to maintain a steady flow of water even in areas without hydrants.
Successful drafting operations require teamwork, communication, and precision. Firefighters must ensure all hose connections are airtight, properly operate the pump, monitor water levels, coordinate tanker movements, and maintain uninterrupted water flow to crews operating on the fireground.
Regular training on these operations ensures our members remain proficient and prepared to deliver the large volumes of water needed to protect lives and property, regardless of where an emergency occurs.
At Laureldale Fire/Rescue, we train today so we’re ready when our community needs us tomorrow.
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