Forward lay is done when the apparatus arrives at a hydrant prior to arriving at the scene of a fire.
The #4 firefighter exits the apparatus, and pulls out the 4” hose. They secure a hydrant wrench and approach the hydrant.
They wrap the hydrant down near the base before stepping on the hose where it crosses and telling the engineer to take it away.
Once the airbrake sets, the first coupling drops or there’s a catastrophic event (ie the hose gets hung up in the bed) the firefighter can unwrap the hydrant.
Next they crack the cap with the hydrant wrench and set it on the stem with the wrench pointing down. They will remove the cap and check for obstructions and the condition of the threads. They’ll then remove the increaser and set it down against the hydrant. They’ll check the gasket of the 4” couling before making their connection. They tighten it first with their hands and then use their knee to tighten it down even further.
The firefighter then flakes out the hose to prevent kinks when the line charges. They standby at the hydrant until the engineer calls for water. They confirm the order and begin to open the valve. They open it so that the water fills the line at a fast walking pace.
Once the line stiffens completely, they’ll open the valve all the way. Next, they’ll return to the rig with the increaser, checking for leaks, fixing kinks and looking for hazards. Once they reach the apparatus, they secure the increaser either in the appropriate compartment or under the tailboard.
Next, they’ll check the amount of intake pressure on the gauge before giving their turnover. The turnover should be “You have a 4” supply line from that hydrant to Engine X. Intake Pressure is XX PSI. There are/are no leaks, kinks and hazards. What is my next assignment?”