In relay pumping, what is the key reason for linking pumps?

• A. To maintain continuous supply
• B. To reduce pump cost
• C. To minimize hose length
• D. To avoid hydrants

Answer: (A)

Relay pumping is about keeping water moving to the fire scene without gaps. Linking pumps creates a river of pressure and flow where each unit shares the load, so the attack line keeps getting water even as distance, height, and friction reduce what a single pump can deliver. The goal is to maintain a continuous supply to the nozzle; one pump alone often can’t sustain the needed volume and pressure for the duration of the fire attack. Costs, hose length, or avoiding hydrants aren’t the driving aim—staying ahead of demand with an uninterrupted water supply is.