Fire Department Connection

Fire Department Connection – Many fire protection systems have a mandatory fire department connection to introduce water and boost the pressure within the fire protection system standpipe.  The fire department connection is the only means for the fire department to introduce water into the standpipe. It is installed downstream of the main riser water control valve. This connection also allows the fire department to supplement the fire protection system with fire suppressant chemicals in the event of a fire. A check valve is installed between the fire department connection and the standpipe or automatic sprinkler system. The check valve prevents the high pressure fire department connection water from entering the potable water system that is connected to the standpipe or automatic sprinkler system. This check valve is not considered a backflow prevention device for cross-connection control. The connection should be evaluated and the appropriate backflow prevention device shall be installed for cross-connection control.