Standpipe (firefighting)

A standpipe or riser is a type of rigid water piping which is built into multi-story buildings in a vertical position, or into bridges in a horizontal position, to which fire hoses can be connected, allowing manual application of water to the fire.

When standpipes are fixed into buildings, the pipe is in place permanently with an intake usually located near a road or driveway, so that a fire engine can supply water to the system.

Fire fighters often bring hoses in with them and attach them to standpipe outlets located along the pipe throughout the structure.

Wet standpipes generally already come with hoses so that building occupants may fight fires quickly.

[1] Firefighters must take precautions to flush the standpipe before use to clear out debris and ensure that water is available.