Firefighting valves allow water to be drawn directly from the sea and pumped to hoses to fight fires on board ships. They are critical safety equipment.

Firefighting valves are located on the exterior decks of ships to enable quick access and allow water intake directly from the sea.

Firefighting valves are opened to allow sea water to be suctioned into pumps and propelled through fire hoses and nozzles to suppress shipboard fires. They provide high volume water flow.

Deckwash valves allow high pressure seawater to be sprayed onto exterior decks for cleaning and removing debris and hazardous materials.

Firefighting valves provide high flow at lower pressures while deckwash valves provide high pressure but lower flows for washing purposes.

Firefighting valves are operated manually by wheels or levers that open a gate to allow full water flow for fire suppression.

Firefighting valves are constructed from corrosion resistant metals like bronze, brass, and stainless steel to withstand seawater.

On ships, firefighting valves draw water directly from the ocean which provides an unlimited supply.

Maritime regulations require ship firefighting valves be inspected and tested at least weekly and after each use.

Some systems allow remote operation of firefighting valves from the bridge or by automated systems for faster response.

Firefighting valves should be periodically disassembled, cleaned, lubricated and tested to ensure they operate reliably in an emergency.

Using corrosion resistant alloys, frequent inspections, testing, flushing with fresh water and protective coatings help prevent sea water corrosion.