When should an apparatus equipped with pressure governors be set to pressure mode?

Setting an apparatus equipped with pressure governors to pressure mode is critical when it is acting as the attack pumper. This mode allows the apparatus to maintain a consistent discharge pressure, which is essential for effectively delivering water to the firefighting attack lines.

When operating as the attack pumper, the need for a steady and reliable pressure is paramount because fluctuations can hinder the firefighting operation. Ensuring that the pressure remains stable helps to guarantee that firefighters receive the required flow and pressure to adequately suppress the fire, and allows for rapid adjustment to changes in the size of the nozzle openings or hose layouts during a fire attack.

In other scenarios, like during maintenance checks or routine exercise drills, the need for constant pressure management is typically less critical. While working as a relay pumper, the focus may shift to enhancing water transfer between multiple apparatuses rather than consistently applying pressure at the nozzle. Therefore, utilizing pressure mode is most crucial when acting as the attack pumper to support effective firefighting operations.