What should you do if a line stops delivering water?

• A. Check for kinks, leaks, trapped air, or a closed valve; re-pressurize and test.
• B. Immediately replace the line and call for backup.
• C. Increase the nozzle pressure to try to push water.
• D. Shut down all gear and retreat.

Answer: (A)

When water stops flowing, the priority is to fix common flow blockers and restore pressure quickly. Start by inspecting the line for kinks that pinch the hose, leaks that vent pressure, trapped air pockets, or a valve that has been accidentally closed. Each of these can stop or severely reduce flow. Once you identify the issue, straighten out the hose, seal or repair any leaks, vent the air, and re-pressurize the line, then test to confirm water is coming through again at the nozzle.

This approach is faster and more precise than replacing the line or backing off. Simply increasing nozzle pressure won’t fix a mechanical blockage or air trap and can risk damage. Retreating or shutting down all gear should only be considered if there’s an immediate, unavoidable safety threat.