Rich Johnson
Captain
St. Petersburg (FL) Fire Department
I am a captain in a mid-size metro fire department and have 18 years of experience. I am also an instructor who had been heavily involved in testing nozzles and training our personnel when we switched to smooth-bore nozzles a couple of years ago. I would like to comment on the following:
Chief of Training Ronald Hiraki`s [Seattle (WA) Fire Department] statement that “the difficulty in controlling [the 212-inch handlines] and general safety concerns” prompted his department`s switch to combination nozzles caused me to wonder how this was possible since smooth-bore nozzles are typically pumped at lower pressures (50 psi compared with 100 psi for most combination nozzles) and have a lower nozzle reaction force, making them easier to control. I also find it ironic that “small rocks in the water main severely reduced the flow from combination nozzles”–that is just one of the many advantages of using smooth-bore nozzles in the first place.
I refer to Deputy Chief Frank C. Schaper`s [St. Louis (MO) Fire Department] statements that his department pumps its lines at 100 to 120 psi engine pressure and that he prefers the combination nozzle because it is versatile. Although he doesn`t say at what flow the department is attempting to pump (probably at least 150 gpm), I wonder how many people are holding this line. We pump a 134-inch line at 50 psi nozzle pressure and flow 160 gallons. One firefighter can do this.
As for versatility, I find little to cheer about with combination nozzles. It is a well-known fact that they have less reach than smooth-bore nozzles. Also, combination nozzles create a lot of steam. At 2127F, they create 1,700 cubic feet of steam for every cubic foot of water. Where is it going? In many house fires, it burns civilians, firefighters, or both. I know; I have been there.
Combination nozzles typically flow less at a higher nozzle reaction force than their smooth-bore counterparts. Today`s structure fires are different from those of 10 years ago. Combustibles burn hotter (almost twice the Btus), and buildings are more energy efficient. Llloyd Layman`s theory of firefighting is fine for shipboard firefighting; it just doesn`t work effectively for structural firefighting.
Lieutenant Bob Oliphant [Kalamazoo (MI) Department of Public Safety] says the department has automatic nozzles on all its aerial master streams. Once again, reach and penetration are the major benefits of smooth-bore tips. Many publications agree that combination nozzles on aerial devices are effective only when they are placed at or inside the door or window. Often, ladder trucks can`t reach the building because of parking limitations, height, or exposure to fire. The smooth-bore is the logical and safe choice.
Although a smooth-bore nozzle doesn`t fit every fire application, I feel it is the right choice for most structure fires. Many experienced firefighters who have tested and trained with a variety of nozzles … agree. I have tested, flowed, and trained with a variety of nozzles. I know what works for me. I hope other departments will take the time to do the same. Then, and only then, can they make an informed decision.
