How is static pressure defined in a firefighting context?

In firefighting, static pressure is defined as the stored potential energy available in a system. This concept is crucial as it represents the pressure in a water system when there is no water flow, indicating the energy available to push water through the system once it is activated. Understanding static pressure helps firefighters calculate how much water can be made available for firefighting efforts and determine the pressure needed to effectively deliver water to the fire scene.

Static pressure is usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi) and is critical when assessing the capabilities of water supply systems, hydrants, and hoses. This understanding directly impacts the flow calculations and overall effectiveness of firefighting operations.