TCFP Plans Examiner Practice Test

When a fire hydrant receives water from multiple directions, what configuration is it considered part of?

1. Looped

2. Single feed

3. Radial

4. Grid

The correct answer is: Looped

When a fire hydrant receives water from multiple directions, it is considered part of a looped configuration. In a looped system, water can flow into the hydrant from different sources or pipelines, which enhances reliability and redundancy. This is critical in fire protection systems, as it ensures that if one source of water fails, others can continue to supply the hydrant. Looped configurations are preferred for their ability to maintain water supply pressure and flow during emergencies, allowing for better performance in firefighting operations. They provide flexibility in the network of water distribution, ensuring that hydrants remain operational even if part of the system experiences a malfunction or maintenance. In contrast, the other options represent different configurations. A single feed would involve water coming from only one direction, which could be less reliable. A radial configuration would suggest a central point from which lines extend outward, and grid configurations typically involve interconnections between parallel water mains that can improve both flow and pressure but do not specifically denote receiving water from multiple directions as clearly as a looped system does.