Wildfires: Water Supply

04/14/2023

Why does it matter?

Having a source of water at your home provides you and firefighters a way to help protect your home if it’s threatened by a wildfire or already on fire. In some areas, water may not be readily accessible, so having a source of stored water can be critical.

What do I need to know?

Identify a means of on-site water, such as those listed below:

• Community water/hydrant system
• Drafting site on a lake
• Swimming pool
• Cooperative emergency storage tank with neighbors

Where do I start?

• Determine where and how water can be accessed or stored on your property, and how water can be collected (ex: rainwater catch system, on-site storage tanks)
• Plan for how water will be pumped or delivered, planning for delivery without electricity
• Consider a gasoline-powered portable pump to deliver the water
• Mark your water supply, so it is readily visible for firefighters if you are not present