Improving firefighters’ operational capacity through a strategically located hydrant cystem in Pedro Carbo cantón

Abstract

Objective: To improve the operational capacity of the Pedro Carbo Canton Fire Department through a proposal for strategically located fire hydrants to strengthen fire response. Methodology: A qualitative study was conducted using a non-experimental, descriptive, and propositional design. Documentary analysis of regulations and territorial maps, technical data collection on the water supply network, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with firefighters, municipal representatives, and a technician from the drinking water utility. Participants were selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Results: The study identified the absence of fire hydrants and the dependence on a water tanker or travel to the sports complex to refill firefighting units. This process takes approximately fifteen minutes and may interrupt firefighting operations. The analysis also revealed access difficulties in certain areas, budgetary constraints, and declining water pressure farther from sector S2, where the supply well is located. Based on urban and operational criteria, eight installation points were proposed in the cantonal administrative center, and three-inch traffic-type fire hydrants were selected. An expert evaluated the proposal favorably. Conclusions: The proposed system represents an alternative for improving water supply and supporting the continuity of firefighting operations. Its implementation requires verifying the hydraulic conditions at each location, completing the budget assessment, and establishing interinstitutional agreements to finance, install, and maintain the infrastructure. The actual benefits must be measured after the system becomes operational