Fire-Rescue-EMS Sprinkler System and Standpipe Field Trip

Thanks Bradley Fire Department and Lieutenant Dockus!

The students enrolled in the Fire-Rescue-EMR curriculum at the Kankakee Area Career Center have been learning about fire protection systems - specifically automatic fire sprinklers and standpipe systems which, aid firefighters in extinguishing fires. 

To obtain a better understand of this subject, students recently took a field trip to a commercial occupancy in Bradley, Illinois. This allowed students to actually see a fine example of a fire protection system and visualize what they have been taught in the classroom setting. 

Students were questioned at each location and asked to explain the functions of the system components.  The Fire Department Connection (FDC) is where the fire engine connects its hose to help supply water into the systems.  The fire pump room contains numerous valves and monitoring devices that allow water to flow through the system and notify the dispatch center if a problem arises.  The standpipes provide connections for fire hose on each floor thus enabling a water supply for fire hose to fight fires in high rise areas. 

Knowledge of the technology and operating procedures for these intricate systems is a prerequisite for anyone who desires a career  in the fire service.  FACT:  these systems work: there has never been a reported incident of a multiple loss of life to occupants in a building protected by a fully operating and properly maintained sprinkler system. 

KACC Instructor, Ed Leeson, the Fire-Rescue-EMR Students and KACC Administration thank Lt. Eric Dockus of the Bradley Fire Department for arranging the tour and sharing his knowledge and experiences with our students.

KACC never loses sight of the importance of partnering with local professionals as we fulfill our missing - Preparing Students for Tomorrow!