What is the purpose of a fire engine's gauge panel?

The purpose of a fire engine's gauge panel is to provide real-time data on pump pressure and water levels. This information is critical for firefighters as they operate the engine and manage water supply during firefighting operations. High pump pressure is necessary to effectively deliver water through hoses and nozzles to extinguish fires, while monitoring water levels ensures that the engine has enough supply to operate effectively. By keeping an eye on these readings, firefighters can make informed decisions about how to adjust their operations for optimal performance and safety.

While other gauges might inform the crew about different aspects of the engine's performance, the gauge panel's focus on maintaining accurate pump pressures and water levels is fundamental to their firefighting efforts.