Erath celebrates 88th annual 4th of July event with traditional water fight [Video]

ERATH, La. (KLFY)– Celebrating the 88th annual 4th of July celebration, News 10 captured the traditional water fight between fire departments across Acadiana for the first time.

“The goal is pretty much to take the water stream and keep it on the back of their heads,” Fire Chief Chad Savoy with the Erath Volunteer Fire Department, said. “The one that keeps it there the longest wins the round or knocks off their helmet.”

The tradition of firefighter water fights on the 4th of July dates back to the 19th century in the United States. The water fights involve teams of firefighters using hoses to spray water at each other. They served as a demonstration of the firefighters’ skills and teamwork, showcasing their ability to handle fire hoses and work together under pressure. Savoy said the water pressure is 70 PSI. For the audience looking at the hit of the water on the firefighters’ bodies …