What should be monitored while priming the pump?

Monitoring the intake and pressure gauges while priming the pump is crucial for ensuring proper operation and performance of the fire apparatus equipment. The intake gauge provides real-time feedback on the vacuum created within the pump, indicating whether water is being effectively drawn into the pump from the source. If the intake gauge shows low or no vacuum, it suggests that there may be an obstruction or that the pump is not priming correctly, which could impair the ability to deliver water when it's needed.

Meanwhile, the pressure gauge indicates the pressure of the water within the pump once it has successfully been primed. This measurement is essential for understanding how much pressure is available for delivering water to the fire or other application. Proper monitoring of both gauges allows the driver engineer to quickly diagnose issues during the priming process, ensuring that the fire apparatus is ready for effective use in emergency situations. This vigilance helps maintain operational readiness and ensures safety during firefighting operations.