Drafting Operations Drill: Crews Sharpen Rural Water Supply Skills at Bantam Lake

Photo by Morris Fire Company
Morris, CT - The Morris Fire Company conducted a multi-line pumping drill focused on sustained water supply operations in non-hydranted areas.
Engine 3 was positioned at the Bantam Lake boat launch, drafting water through a strainer and supplying Engine 5 via a 5-inch large diameter hose (LDH) stretch to East Shore Road. The evolution simulated extended water supply operations, requiring coordination between apparatus and crews.
Firefighters operated the deck gun along with 2.5-inch and 1.75-inch handlines, while closely monitoring pump pressures, water flow, and overall apparatus performance throughout the drill.
The training reinforced critical skills including drafting operations, pump management, hose deployment, and nozzle handling—ensuring crews remain prepared for incidents where reliable hydrant access is unavailable

