A stream discharging more than 350 gpm is classified as which type?

A stream discharging more than 350 gpm is classified as which type?

• A. Master stream
• B. Handline stream
• C. Fog stream
• D. Straight stream

Answer: (A)

Discharge rate defines how streams are categorized in interior attack practice. When the flow is greater than about 350 gallons per minute, you’re dealing with a master stream. This label signals a large-volume delivery achieved with large-diameter hose or a deck gun/monitor, designed for rapid knockdown of big fires and for reaching beyond interior spaces. It also usually requires more personnel and careful coordination because of the powerful, high-volume water application. In contrast, handline streams are smaller flows suitable for standard interior work and typically delivered with 1.5" to 2.5" lines. The terms fog stream and straight stream describe the nozzle pattern, not the volume: fog creates a diffused, multi-jet spray, while straight stream is a solid, focused jet. Neither pattern alone implies the high flow rate that defines a master stream.

Discharge rate defines how streams are categorized in interior attack practice. When the flow is greater than about 350 gallons per minute, you’re dealing with a master stream. This label signals a large-volume delivery achieved with large-diameter hose or a deck gun/monitor, designed for rapid knockdown of big fires and for reaching beyond interior spaces. It also usually requires more personnel and careful coordination because of the powerful, high-volume water application.

In contrast, handline streams are smaller flows suitable for standard interior work and typically delivered with 1.5" to 2.5" lines. The terms fog stream and straight stream describe the nozzle pattern, not the volume: fog creates a diffused, multi-jet spray, while straight stream is a solid, focused jet. Neither pattern alone implies the high flow rate that defines a master stream.