Water supply refers to the systems and resources that deliver water to firefighting operations, including municipal hydrants, mobile tankers, and portable pumps. This encompasses the strategic planning and management of these resources to ensure adequate flow rates, typically measured in gallons per minute (gpm), to maintain operational effectiveness. Not to be confused with water distribution, which pertains to the broader network supplying water to various consumers, water supply in firefighting is critical for achieving the necessary pressure, often requiring a minimum of 100 psi at the nozzle for effective suppression.
Category context: Core tactics, command, suppression, ventilation, search, and water supply terminology used on the fireground.