What purpose do municipal water systems serve in firefighting?

Municipal water systems are vital in firefighting because they furnish water under pressure through fire hydrants. These systems are designed to ensure that firefighters have immediate access to a reliable water supply during an emergency. The pressure in the municipal water system is critical, as it allows firefighters to effectively deliver and manage the water required to combat fires swiftly and efficiently.

Fire hydrants are strategically placed throughout municipalities to provide quick access to high-pressure water, which is essential for effective firefighting operations. When firefighters connect hoses to a hydrant, they can draw a significant volume of water to extinguish fires and perform rescue operations. This capability is crucial for minimizing property damage, protecting lives, and controlling fire spread.

In contrast, the other options, such as providing water directly from lakes, delivering water with tankers, or storing water in tanks, represent different methods of water supply that may be used in certain situations but do not reflect the primary role of municipal water systems, which specifically focus on pressurized water distribution for immediate use during firefighting efforts.