What is the primary focus of the 3rd arriving engine company in a high-rise fire?

In a high-rise fire scenario, the primary focus of the third arriving engine company is to set up a water supply. This is critical because high-rise buildings often have complex standpipe and hose systems that may not be immediately functional or accessible. The third arriving engine company plays a crucial support role by ensuring that there is an adequate and reliable water supply that can be pumped to the upper floors where firefighters may need to engage in firefighting operations.

Establishing a reliable water supply allows firefighting efforts to be sustained and effective. When positioning equipment and personnel, it’s essential to find a strategic location to facilitate swift water delivery to the affected floors. This setup is vital for maximizing the efficiency of firefighting operations and ensuring the safety of both firefighters and occupants.

While there are important tasks like lobby control, forcible entry, and evacuation procedures that might occupy the attention of other units at the scene, the third arriving engine's responsibility to establish a water supply is fundamental to the success of the operation in fighting the fire effectively and preventing further spread.