What can prolonged freezing of a standpipe system lead to?

Prolonged freezing of a standpipe system can lead to system rupture and failure because water expands when it freezes. If water within the pipes of the standpipe system freezes, the pressure from the expanding ice can cause the pipes to crack or burst. This structural damage can compromise the system's integrity, rendering it ineffective during emergencies.

In the context of firefighting, a damaged standpipe system would not be able to deliver water efficiently, which defeats its primary purpose. It's crucial to maintain the proper operating temperature of the standpipe system to prevent freezing, especially in colder climates where temperatures can drop significantly. Ensuring that the system is properly insulated or heated can help avoid these costly and dangerous failures, safeguarding both the infrastructure and the readiness of the firefighting equipment.