How is total GPM calculated when using a water thief?

To determine the total gallons per minute (GPM) when using a water thief, the process involves summing the flow rates of each line connected to the water thief. This method is crucial in a firefighting context, as it allows for an accurate assessment of how much water is being delivered through multiple outlets simultaneously.

Each line will have its own flow rate due to varying nozzle sizes, pressures, and resistances in the hoses. A water thief is designed to allow multiple lines to draw water from the same source, and calculating the total GPM requires the addition of all individual line flow rates to understand the full output available for firefighting efforts.

This thorough understanding ensures that firefighters can effectively manage water supply during operations, allowing for optimal resource utilization. Inaccurate calculations through methods like measuring pressure or averaging flow rates could lead to an underestimation or overestimation of water availability, which may impact firefighting strategy and effectiveness.