What is reverse lay water supply and when is it typically used?

• A. Reverse lay places the supply line from the scene to the hydrant; used when hydrant access is constrained or to keep the hydrant area clear.
• B. Reverse lay runs a line from hydrant to engine.
• C. Reverse lay is not used in modern systems.
• D. Reverse lay means you lay the line from engine back toward the hydrant.

Answer: (A)

Reverse lay means you deploy the supply hose from the fire scene back toward the hydrant, so the engine can connect to the hydrant once positioned. This approach is used when hydrant access is constrained or when you want to keep the hydrant area clear for traffic, other apparatus, or scene operations. Water travels from the hydrant through the laid line to the engine’s pump, then on to the attack line. It’s a practical option in tight streets, crowded hydrant zones, or when you need to avoid blocking the hydrant itself.