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NFS (London Region) water relay exercise, WW2
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NFS (London Region) water relay exercise, WW2
The Blitz had shown the vital importance of securing a good water supply and the dire consequences when it failed. NFS London firefighters practised large scale exercises securing a water supply and relaying, or delivering, that water to the crews at the fire. Here trailer pumps are being lowered to the river foreshore ready to lift water. The exercise was undertaken at Ordnance Wharf, Blackwall, East London
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Media ID 7638271
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
1942 Blackwall Crews Delivering Drill Exercise Exercises Foreshore Hose Hosepipe Hosepipes Hoses Lane Lift Ordnance Practice Practising Pumps Region Relay Relaying Supply Tactical Trailer Wharf Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In the shadow of the Blitz: London Fire Brigade's Water Relay Exercise during World War II During the dark days of World War II, the vital importance of securing a reliable water supply for firefighting efforts became all too clear. The devastating consequences of water shortages were starkly illustrated as fires raged through London's streets, leaving countless homes and businesses in ruins. In response to this critical need, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) conducted large-scale water relay exercises to ensure their crews were prepared to tackle any blaze, no matter the circumstances. This evocative photograph captures a pivotal moment from one such exercise, which took place at Ordnance Wharf in Blackwall, East London, in 1942. Firefighters from the NFS London Region are seen readying trailer pumps for deployment at the river's edge. The trailer pumps, essential for lifting water from the Thames, are being carefully positioned for lowering to the foreshore. The water relay drills were a crucial tactical aspect of the LFB's training regimen during the war. Firefighters practised forming lines, or lanes, to efficiently transport water from the source to the fire engines. This process, known as relaying or delivering water, was vital for keeping the firefighting effort going strong. As the Second World War raged on, the London Fire Brigade's determination to protect their city from the ravages of fire was unwavering. The men and women who served during this time demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience, and their efforts helped to save countless lives and preserve the fabric of London. This powerful image serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment and the vital role water relay exercises played in the LFB's wartime operations.
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