Summary: In a rural hitch water supply operation, the second-arriving tanker plays a critical role in ensuring a seamless transition of water to the fireground. As Tanker One runs low, Tanker Two should stage at least 100 feet away, pre-connect a 3" discharge line, and prepare to throttle up as soon as the first tanker is empty. This approach prevents delays, maintains water flow, and keeps the dump site operational and efficient.
Why the Second Tanker Sets the Tempo in Rural Hitch Operations
In rural firefighting, where hydrants are nowhere in sight, your water supply hinges on how well your tanker shuttle is executed. The hitch tactic — setting up a water point at the top of the drive with LDH and appliances — only works if your transitions are tight. And that means your second-arriving tanker can’t just sit and wait. It’s got to be ready to move.
Here’s how that looks in a sharp rural hitch setup.
Step 1: Check the Status of the First Tanker Immediately
When Tanker Two arrives at the scene, the first move isn’t to start pumping — it’s to check in with Tanker One. Specifically, how much water is left in the tank? If Tanker One is running low, it’s go-time.
Step 2: Lay Out a 3" Hose at Least 100 Feet Away
Spacing matters. Don’t crowd the dump site.
Your next move is to stretch a section of 3" hose from Tanker Two’s discharge port — but do it at least 100 feet away from the first tanker’s location. Why? Because your dump site needs room to breathe. Leaving that space gives future tankers a clean path in and out. Choking off your own logistics is the fastest way to slow down a water operation.
Step 3: Connect the Line and Stand Ready
Once the 3" hose is in place, connect it to Tanker Two’s discharge and wait.
You don’t need to flow yet — this is about being ready. As Tanker One starts hitting the bottom of the tank, Tanker Two stands by, with throttle and discharge ready to go.
Step 4: Seamless Transition When Tanker One Runs Dry
As soon as Tanker One is about out of water, Tanker Two throttles up and begins flowing through the pre-connected 3" line. It’s a smooth handoff — no stops, no gaps, no scrambling to connect gear while the fire waits for water.
This is where tight coordination and disciplined setup pay off.
Step 5: Tanker One Disconnects and Heads to Refill
Once its water is spent and the line is taken over by Tanker Two, Tanker One disconnects and immediately heads back to the fill site.
No delay. No overlap. Just a clean transition that keeps water moving toward the fireground without clogging up your dump site.
Common Mistake: Poor Hose Placement or Communication
The biggest failure point in this tactic? Poor spacing and weak communication.
If Tanker Two parks too close or doesn’t pre-connect a line early enough, you’re stuck playing catch-up while the fire burns and everyone waits for water. Always:
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Leave enough room (100 ft minimum)
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Check in with the current water status
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Set up your line early
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Be ready to throttle up instantly when needed
Why This Matters: One Job, One Role, One Flow
In rural water supply, every rig has one job. When Tanker Two shows up, its role is clear: back up the first tanker and prepare for the swap.
This clarity — paired with good spacing and sharp transitions — keeps water flowing, roads clear, and fire attack uninterrupted.
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