Arizona Plumbing Practice Exam

What is the required number of fire department connections on the outside of a building?

1. One 2 1/2 inch connection

2. Two 2 1/2 inch connections

3. Three 2 1/2 inch connections

4. Four 2 1/2 inch connections

The correct answer is: Two 2 1/2 inch connections

The required number of fire department connections on the outside of a building is determined by several factors including the size and type of the building as well as local fire codes. In many cases, a provision of two 2 1/2 inch connections is aimed at ensuring adequate water supply for firefighting efforts. Having two connections allows firefighters to efficiently connect their hoses and obtain the necessary water flow, providing redundancy in case one connection is obstructed or unavailable. This standard typically aligns with recommendations for buildings that have multiple stories or other features that may complicate direct access to water sources. The presence of two connections enhances safety by ensuring that in emergency situations, the fire department has the flexibility to respond effectively. While one connection might sometimes be sufficient for smaller structures, and more than two may be required for large or complex buildings, the two-connection guideline is a commonly accepted balance between efficiency and safety in standard building designs.