What is a fire pump primarily used for?

A fire pump is primarily used to provide liquid flow and pressure for fire protection, specifically to ensure that an adequate supply of water is available to extinguish fires effectively. Fire pumps play a crucial role in fire protection systems by boosting water pressure from water supplies like fire tanks, wells, or municipal water systems, ensuring that fire hydrants, sprinkler systems, and standpipes can deliver sufficient water to combat fires.

The design and operation of fire pumps are essential for maintaining the required pressure and flow rates as dictated by fire codes and standards, such as NFPA 24. This is integral to enhancing the effectiveness of firefighting efforts, especially in areas where gravitational flow is insufficient or when water must be delivered over long distances or to higher elevations.

While other options mention uses of pumps, they do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of fire pumps in the context of firefighting and fire protection systems.