What is the purpose of fire department connections (FDC)?

Fire department connections (FDC) are specifically designed to provide additional water supply to firefighters during an emergency situation. These connections allow firefighters to quickly access a reliable and efficient source of water to combat fires, especially when the existing water supply may be inadequate for the size and intensity of the fire. By connecting to the FDC, firefighters can enhance the flow and pressure of water available for fire suppression efforts, making them crucial during large or complex incidents.

The primary function of FDCs aligns with ensuring that personnel can effectively manage and control fires, thereby minimizing damage and protecting lives. Having readily accessible connections is vital, as they can greatly improve response times and enable firefighters to deploy hoses more effectively.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different functions within fire protection systems but do not encapsulate the core purpose of FDCs. Automatic alarms, risk reduction, and system integrity testing are significant in their own right but do not directly relate to the FDC's role in supplying water for firefighting operations. Understanding the primary function of FDCs is essential for effective fire suppression practices and training for fire department personnel.