Which statement about standpipe systems is true?

• A. They are decorative pipes without firefighting use.
• B. They provide accessible water supply for firefighting on upper floors and are required in high-rise buildings.
• C. They automatically discharge water to all floors when any alarm sounds.
• D. They function only during power outages.

Answer: (B)

Standpipes are built to deliver a ready water supply to firefighters on upper floors, so they don’t have to haul water up many levels. In high-rise buildings, codes require this network to ensure rapid access to water for firefighting where it’s most needed. The system isn’t decorative, and water only flows to a standpipe outlet when a valve is opened or the system is activated by the firefighters’ actions, not automatically across all floors with any alarm. It also isn’t correct to say they only work during power outages; while pumps and controls may require power, standpipes are an integral fire protection feature designed to be available when needed, not limited to outages.