Fire Pump Training Rural Water Operations with the Flintville Volunteer Fire Rescue
In this video, I documented a hands-on pump operations class with Flintville Volunteer Fire & Rescue here in Lincoln County.
In a small rural fire department like ours, everyone has to be ready to do it all — and that includes serving as a pump operator.
Unlike larger cities with hydrant systems on every corner, most of our fire calls don’t have the luxury of hooking directly to a hydrant. Instead, we haul water to the scene using tanker trucks (also called tenders). That water is dumped into portable holding pools known as dump tanks. From there, the engine drafts water from the tank, and the pump operator becomes the critical link in the chain — sending steady, controlled water pressure through the hoses to the firefighters actively working the fire.
Pump operations are about more than just pulling a lever. Operators must understand:
• Water supply and drafting
• Maintaining proper pressure
• Monitoring tank levels
• Coordinating with tanker drivers
• Protecting firefighters on the nozzle
A mistake at the pump can mean a loss of water at the line — and in a fire situation, water is everything.
This training session focused on making sure every member understands the mechanics, the math, and the responsibility behind running the pump panel. In rural firefighting, versatility isn’t optional — it’s essential.
I’m proud to capture moments like this that show the preparation behind the scenes. When the tones drop and a real call comes in, this kind of training is what makes the difference.
Don Counts