What does a dry hydrant enable an engine to do?

A dry hydrant is a fixed pipe system that allows a fire engine to draft water from a static source, such as a pond, lake, or reservoir. This system is typically installed in rural areas where traditional pressurized fire hydrants may not be available. The design of a dry hydrant involves a vertical pipe with a strainer at the bottom, which is submerged in the water source, and a horizontal pipe that leads to a connection point where fire engines can attach their suction hoses.

When drafting from a static water source via a dry hydrant, the fire engine's pump creates a vacuum to draw water into the pump and then out through the fire hoses to fight the fire. This method is essential when immediate access to a pressurized water supply is not available, allowing firefighters to effectively manage and overcome fire incidents even in remote locations.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of a dry hydrant. A dry hydrant does not provide water under pressure, does not allow for remote control, and is not designed for connecting multiple hydrants in parallel. Its sole purpose is to facilitate the drafting of water from a static supply to support firefighting efforts.