8K
Population
55
Employees
1200
Annual Call Volume
Overview
The Lewiston Fire Department (LFC) in Lewiston, NY—staffed by 55 seasoned firefighters and operating 3 pumpers and 2 ambulances—overcame low-pressure hydrant challenges by implementing the SAM System in 2017. By automating routine pumping tasks and stabilizing waterflow, SAM eliminated pressure-related concerns, reducing the risk of operator error, and improved both crew safety and efficiency on the fireground.
Challenge
Low-pressure hydrants strained operations and stressed aging water infrastructure
Solution
The SAM System helps crews dealing with low-pressure hydrants by automatically managing water sources to maintain consistent and safe discharge pressure.
Before SAM, we had to be at the pump panel with a hand on the throttle to adjust pressures as things happen. In theory this locked us to the pump panel and made it harder to get resources (light, fan, ladder, etc) to firefighters. With SAM and the tablet controlling the pump pressures remotely, frees us up, especially with a short-staffed crew. SAM theoretically gives you an extra person on the scene.
Brian Christman, current Engine Chairman, former Chief
Results
Faster initial attack
Crews can begin suppression using onboard tank water immediately, while SAM transitions to hydrant supply
Consistent waterflow
Automated pressure stabilization maintains steady discharge, even with fluctuating hydrant pressure
Operator efficiency
Pump operators are freed from constant panel adjustment to support the crew on scene
Increased safety
Reliable water supply reduced risk for nozzle crews and minimized chances of error
Seamless source switching
SAM automatically transitions between tank, hydrant, and tanker without interrupting water flow