Berkeley Heights, N.J. — May 31 — To improve water delivery operations in places without dependable hydrant access, the Berkeley Heights Fire Department held drafting drills. Chief Mark Russo of the Warren Fire Department and the Mount Bethel Fire Company contributed a 3,500-gallon portable drafting pond for the training.

Under simulated fireground conditions, firefighters rehearsed creating a water supply by drafting water via a large-diameter suction hose and running apparatus pumps. Maintaining a steady supply of water for suppression operations in situations where hydrants are either unavailable or remote from an event was the main focus of the simulation. According to department officials, the practical training keeps personnel competent in vital water delivery procedures.