What component should be factored into the design of water tenders according to NFPA 1901?

In the context of designing water tenders, the filling rate is a crucial factor as specified in NFPA 1901. This standard outlines the requirements for fire apparatus, including water tenders, to ensure they can effectively supply water during firefighting operations.

The filling rate refers to how quickly the water tender can be filled from a static water source, which is vital for maintaining efficient operations during emergencies. A higher filling rate allows the unit to quickly replenish its water supply, enabling faster response times and minimizing downtime. This is especially important in situations where rapid refilling is necessary to keep fire suppression efforts ongoing.

Incorporating an effective filling rate in the design also allows departments to determine the types of equipment and systems needed to optimize the tender’s performance. A design that does not consider the filling rate may lead to operational inefficiencies or challenges during critical fire incidents, ultimately impacting firefighting effectiveness and safety.