What alternative methods did firefighters use when the main failed?

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Firefighters Employed Contingency Plan Due to Dry Rising Main Malfunction

Firefighters utilized a contingency method of running hoses directly from the fire engine up the staircase when the dry rising main at Block 309 Clementi Avenue 4 malfunctioned during a blaze on July 31. This alternative procedure is part of their regular training and was implemented to overcome a significant drop in water pressure that prevented water from reaching the eighth floor. The victim of the fire later died in hospital, and two firefighters sustained burn injuries.
Contingency Procedure Activated

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) confirmed that their crew switched to an alternative method of delivering water to the fire floor. This involved manually laying hoses from the fire engine, which was stationed outside, up through the building's stairwell. This approach is a standard contingency measure that firefighters are trained to execute.
Impact of Dry Rising Main Failure

The dry rising main, a system designed to deliver water for firefighting, failed due to a dislodged coupling. This malfunction caused a severe loss of water pressure, critically hindering the ability to supply water effectively to the affected unit on the eighth floor. The dry rising main had been serviced and pressure-tested on March 14 and was found to be in good working order at that time.
Investigation into Equipment Failure

A preliminary assessment by Holland-Bukit Panjang Town Council identified the dislodged coupling as the cause of the pressure loss. The council has since repaired the coupling and is cooperating with the SCDF's investigation. Further tests on the system and planned checks across other blocks under the council's purview are underway to prevent future occurrences.

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What alternative methods did firefighters use when the main failed?

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