Rural Fire Protection Water Storage: 3 Key Factors

In rural areas, access to a reliable, high-volume water supply can be critical to fire preparedness. A domestic well may be adequate for everyday use but may not provide the sustained flow required during a fire emergency.

A dedicated on-site water-storage tank can provide an accessible reserve for emergency use. When properly designed, it may also give responding fire crews an additional water source on the property.

3 Factors to Consider for Fire-Protection Water Storage

• Dedicated Emergency Volume: Large polyethylene tanks can maintain a substantial reserve of water rather than relying solely on the output of a domestic well when no pond or other dependable water source is nearby. Required storage volume will vary by property, application and local requirements.
• Fire Department Access and Fittings: Stored water is only useful if responding crews can access it efficiently. Tank placement and connection points should be planned in consultation with the local fire department or authority having jurisdiction before valves, fittings or connections are selected.
• Location and Accessibility: Consider year-round truck access, distance from structures, terrain, snow accumulation and whether the system will remain accessible during a power outage or other emergenc