OG 1002 Draining of Pumps, Plumbing & Waterways

Issued By: EMERGENCY FLEET (P. McCulley)
Approved By: Fire Chief William H. Mosher
Date of Issue:  1997/02/11
Revision Date:  1998/11/17; 2007/11/02

BACKGROUND:

When using hose lines, booster lines, pump tanks and related equipment during the colder months care must be taken to ensure they are properly drained. Check to verify water is not lying in low areas or trapped between caps and closed valves. When apparatus is on the street, during cooler months, the engine is to be left running and the pump compartment heater turned on.

PURPOSE: 

To prevent freezing of pump and valves, caution must be exercised when apparatus is being used in below zero 0E C (32EF) degree weather.

OBJECTIVE:

The objective is to ensure operational efficiency and prevent the damage of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency apparatus.

SCOPE:

This policy applies to career and volunteer members of HRFE. 

PROCEDURE: 

(1)    Booster lines and pumps of apparatus are to be drained when the temperature reaches +1 o C (34 o F).

(2)    Caps on all outlets are to be removed and the gate valves and bleeders are to be opened to remove all water from the plumbing.

(3)    When the colder weather season is at hand (+1 o C /34 o F), all aerial operators are to make sure that the waterways and related plumbing are drained completely and after every use in colder temperatures.

(4)    The booster line(s) on any apparatus must be drained when the cold weather season is at hand and after every use in colder temperatures.

(5)    Report any leakage into the pump to Emergency Fleet Maintenance.

OPERATING GUIDELINE REVIEW:

This Operating Guideline shall be reviewed when/if there are changes/amendments to the procedure followed for the draining of pumps, plumbing and waterways.