Which statement correctly describes the positioning of pumping apparatus at a scene?

• A. Any position downwind of the incident is acceptable
• B. Lay your own supply line if next arriving apparatus will have difficulty following you to the scene
• C. Fire attack should not influence placement
• D. Establishing external water supply is rarely a consideration

Answer: (B)

In pumping apparatus positioning, the goal is to ensure a reliable water supply and safe, efficient access for hose lays and attack lines. If the next arriving engine will have trouble following you to the scene, laying your own supply line now keeps water moving to the pump without waiting for someone to catch up or navigate tight routes. This approach prevents delays, helps maintain adequate pressure for initial operations, and allows the first arriving unit to begin its fire attack or defensive actions without being hindered by later units’ access issues.

The other ideas don’t fit because water supply planning is active and essential, not something you ignore; attack planning does influence where you place the pump to support the strategy; and you don’t position pumps simply anywhere downwind or dismiss the need for an external water supply—the water source and the ability to get water to the pump are critical considerations from the start.