Why is it important to connect hoselines to the FDC during a fire incident?

Connecting hoselines to the Fire Department Connection (FDC) during a fire incident is vital because it facilitates a continuous water supply for sprinklers. The FDC serves as a crucial point where fire apparatus can connect to the building's sprinkler or standpipe systems, allowing firefighters to enhance the water supply available for fire suppression efforts. This is particularly important in large structures or in situations where the existing water supply from hydrants may be insufficient to handle the demands of a fire.

By connecting to the FDC, firefighters ensure that the sprinkler system can effectively deliver water directly to the fire area, even while they are engaged in other firefighting operations. This continuous flow contributes significantly to controlling and suppressing the fire, reducing the chances of a flare-up and safeguarding the structural integrity of the building as well as the safety of occupants and first responders.