Which of the following statements about standpipe systems is true?

• A. They are used to supply water to sprinklers automatically
• B. They require firefighters to connect lines to a building’s external water supply
• C. They provide water to hose lines on multiple floors
• D. They are a type of alarm system

Answer: (C)

Standpipe systems are designed to deliver water to hose outlets on multiple floors for interior firefighting. Having outlets on several levels lets firefighters access water quickly where the fire is, without needing to run hoses up from street level to each floor, which speeds suppression and reduces fatigue. These systems can be connected to the building’s internal water supply and may have a fire department connection to access external water if needed, but their primary purpose is to provide water to hose lines on various floors. They are not sprinklers, and they are not an alarm system, which is why the statement about providing water to hose lines on multiple floors is the correct description.