Portsmouth Engine 1 Supplied Water at Two-Alarm Fire

Portsmouth, RI — September 15 — Portsmouth Rhode Island Firefighters helped Little Compton firefighters during a two-alarm structure fire by setting up a water supply for the crews on the scene.

Portsmouth Engine 1 created a water supply from a nearby pond and supported at least six other fire departments that were helping with the response.

This was necessary because Little Compton did not have a municipal hydrant system available for the fire. Car 3 was also at the scene, helping with command and coordination as the response continued.

Providing water was a major part of the operation. Portsmouth Engine 1 had a pump that could move 2,000 gallons of water per minute and a 730-gallon water tank, which gave the crew the ability to support continuous fire suppression efforts.

Little Compton Fire Department has often used tanker operations and regional mutual aid when dealing with structure fires.

In August, they activated the East Bay Tanker Task Force during a fire on Stone Church Road, and asked for additional departments to assist with water supply and fire suppression.

The September response once again showed how important coordinated mutual aid is in areas where traditional hydrant systems are not available. Portsmouth Rhode Island Firefighters provided both personnel and water supply resources while working with Little Compton and other responding agencies. The department operated from 2300 E Main Road in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.