What are the two key elements in the development of a pre-incident plan with respect to water supply?

The two key elements in the development of a pre-incident plan concerning water supply are availability and reliability.

Availability refers to the capacity of the water supply to be accessed when needed during an emergency. This encompasses considerations such as whether the hydrants or other water sources are operational, accessible, and can provide sufficient water in various scenarios. Reliability emphasizes the trustworthiness of the water supply system, particularly its ability to deliver the required quantity and pressure consistently, without interruptions due to maintenance, failures, or system issues.

Focusing on these two elements allows fire officers to assess whether the water resources will be sufficient for firefighting efforts during an incident, ensuring that they can effectively combat fires and protect lives and property. The reliability of the supply can also influence tactical decisions made in the heat of the moment, underscoring the importance of having a dependable water source.