What is the most critical factor to consider when selecting a draft site?

The most critical factor when selecting a draft site is the amount of water available. This is essential because, in firefighting scenarios, having a sufficient and reliable water supply is crucial for effective fire suppression. A site with an ample water source ensures that the pump can draw enough water to maintain pressure and flow rates needed to combat the fire efficiently.

Factors such as accessibility and distance from the fire are important but secondary to the actual availability of water. Without an adequate water supply, even the best-accessible site or one that is closer to the fire becomes ineffective in achieving firefighting objectives. The same can be said regarding proximity to hydrants; while hydrants do provide a water source, they may not always be available in rural or remote areas, making the on-site water volume and reliability a top priority.