the present method and apparatus are directed to a fire control system for use with a drilling rig . multiple nozzle means are positioned around a drilling rig at selected locations to spray water delivered through fire hoses onto the rig to prevent fire damage . the equipment utilizes a skid - mounted engine and connected centrifugal pump for delivery of water from a closed storage tank . an engine control unit adjusts the throttle to an operating speed which delivers no water during normal operation . subject to control by switch means on the rig floor , either hard wired or by means of a radio transmitter and receiver arrangement , the engine control unit switches the engine to maximum power output . an alarm is also sounded when this occurs . so long as the engine is running , operating lights signal rig personnel that the equipment is operative . the equipment is switched from a slow speed operation to a maximum power output to deliver water under control of rig personnel .