What is the role of a fire department connection (FDC)?

• A. To allow fire departments to supply water to a building’s sprinkler system
• B. To monitor electrical systems
• C. To provide ventilation
• D. To evacuate water from the system

Answer: (A)

The role of a fire department connection is to provide a point where firefighters can pump water into a building’s sprinkler or standpipe system to boost the water supply and pressure for firefighting. Located on the exterior, it often uses a Siamese-style fitting that allows hoses from a fire engine to be connected and fed into the building’s piping. This setup is crucial when the building’s internal water supply or pressure isn’t enough, such as tall buildings, long piping runs, or high demand during a blaze, enabling water to reach sprinkler heads and standpipe outlets quickly. It’s not for monitoring electrical systems, providing ventilation, or removing water from the system.