What does a rural hitch combine at the end of the relay line?

A rural hitch combines a gated or clappered wye at the end of the relay line to effectively distribute water from a primary supply source to multiple hoses as needed for firefighting efforts. The use of a gated wye allows firefighters to control the flow of water to different lines, enabling them to prioritize which areas require immediate water supply. This flexibility is especially important in rural settings where distances can be longer, and water supply may be limited. Moreover, employing a clappered wye prevents backflow into the supply line, ensuring that the system maintains constant water pressure and integrity. This design is vital for efficient fire suppression, making a gated or clappered wye the correct choice in this context.