What is the purpose of a fire department connection (FDC)?

The purpose of a fire department connection (FDC) is primarily to provide a means for firefighters to connect hoses to an external water supply, such as a municipal water system or a private water source, during firefighting operations. This connection allows firefighters to augment the water supply available in a building's fire protection system, particularly in situations where the existing water supply may be insufficient to combat the fire effectively.

When firefighters arrive at the scene of a fire, having access to the FDC enables them to quickly establish a reliable water source, ensuring that they can deliver sufficient water to extinguish the flames and protect the occupants as well as neighboring structures. This capability is critical for successfully managing larger fires or incidents where the fire suppression systems installed within the building may not be adequate.

The other options do not pertain to the FDC's function. Providing a fire exit relates to safety egress for occupants, while alerting occupants of a fire involves alarm systems. Housing firefighting equipment refers to storage areas or facilities, which is also distinct from the FDC's role in supplying water during emergencies.