The Essential System
Wet and dry rising mains are essential fire protection systems designed specifically for use by the fire service or other trained personnel, such as building safety teams or trained on-site responders. These systems provide an efficient, readily available method for delivering substantial amounts of water quickly to suppress or prevent the spread of fire, particularly in multi-story buildings. The primary purpose of rising mains is to ensure that water can be accessed and delivered to upper floors, where standard fire hose operations might be insufficient due to height and pressure constraints.
Dry rising mains consist of vertical pipes installed within staircase enclosures or other strategically suitable locations throughout a building. These pipes remain empty until they are needed in an emergency. Each floor is equipped with outlet valves that the fire service can connect hoses to, allowing for easy access to water at each level. At the ground level, a dry riser inlet is fitted, where fire engines or other external water sources can connect and pump water into the system. This setup allows firefighters to rapidly supply water to multiple floors without the delays associated with hauling hoses up stairways. A critical requirement for dry riser systems is that fire engine access must be within 18 meters of the dry riser inlet box to facilitate quick and effective connection to the water supply.
Fast Response
In contrast, wet rising mains are permanently charged with water, making them immediately ready for use in the event of a fire. These mains can be supplied with water either from a dedicated storage tank, often assisted by a booster pump, or directly from the town’s main water supply. Because they are always filled with water, wet rising mains provide a faster response time compared to dry risers, as there is no need for firefighters to establish a water supply before using the outlets on each floor. This constant readiness is particularly beneficial in high-rise buildings or those where fire risk assessments indicate a higher likelihood or severity of fire incidents.
Before installing either dry or wet rising mains, it is essential to consult with the local fire service to ascertain their exact requirements and standards. This collaboration ensures that the system will meet the specific needs of the area, including pressure requirements, access considerations, and compliance with local fire safety regulations. Understanding these requirements is crucial for ensuring that the rising mains perform optimally during an emergency, providing the fire service with the tools they need to effectively manage and control fires within complex building environments. Proper installation, maintenance, and regular testing are also critical components of an effective rising main system, ensuring reliability and functionality when it matters most.
