Date: July 23 or 24 (1-Day Class)
Class Time: 0800-1700
Location
PPE: Helmet, gloves, and closed-toed shoes/boots

Under Pressure is a comprehensive engineer development program designed for aspiring, newly assigned, and experienced fire apparatus engineers seeking to enhance their operational knowledge and decision-making abilities on the fireground. This hands-on course focuses on developing the engineer mindset—teaching participants to think ahead, anticipate fireground needs, and proactively manage water supply operations before problems arise.

Students will gain a thorough understanding of fire pumps and pumping systems, including pump theory, pressure governors, and booster tank backup operations. The course explores the critical role of the engineer in establishing and maintaining reliable water supplies through relay pumping, tandem pumping, and strategic water supply development.

Participants will also learn practical fireground mathematics, including friction loss calculations, pump discharge pressure determination, and methods for quickly solving hydraulic challenges under emergency conditions. Through classroom instruction, scenario-based discussions, and hands-on pumping exercises, students will apply these concepts in realistic situations designed to build confidence and competence behind the pump panel.

Whether preparing for the engineer position or refining years of experience, Under Pressure provides the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to operate efficiently, support fireground objectives, and keep crews supplied when it matters most.

• Developing the engineer mindset

• Anticipating fireground water supply needs

• Fire pump theory and operation

• Pressure governors and pressure management

• Booster tank operations and backup procedures

• Friction loss calculations and fireground hydraulics

• Pump discharge pressure calculations

• Relay pumping operations

• Tandem pumping operations

• Water supply development strategies

• Troubleshooting common pumping challenges

• Real-world scenarios and hands-on pump operations