What is a fire department connection (FDC)?

A fire department connection (FDC) serves as a critical point within a building's fire protection system, allowing firefighters to connect hoses and access an external water supply during firefighting operations. This connection typically features a set of inlets, often located on the exterior of a building, where firefighters can quickly attach hoses to supplement the water supply from fire hydrants or other sources. The strategic placement of FDCs ensures that emergency responders can efficiently enhance the firefighting capabilities of a building's sprinkler or standpipe system, providing a vital resource in controlling and extinguishing a fire.

The importance of understanding the function of an FDC cannot be overstated; it is designed for rapid access during emergencies when every second counts. Adjusting the misunderstanding around the other options illustrates their distinct purposes: a type of fire extinguisher refers to portable equipment used by individuals to put out small fires; a secure facility for fire equipment alludes to storage spaces for firefighting gear; and a manual for firefighting procedures relates to guidelines for conducting firefighting operations rather than a connection point for water supply. Each of these alternatives pertains to fire safety and response but does not fulfill the essential role that a fire department connection does in the context of emergency firefighting efforts.