We live in what is called an urban/forest interface which means one needs to be very aware of the possibility of forest fires and react accordingly. One of the recommendations is to have a supply of water on hand for fire fighting. If you have a swimming pool or pond you are set, but if not another alternative is needed.
We purchased three 330 gallon IBC Totes and enclosed them with a cedar surround. These were then placed strategically on the property. They are located such that a fire truck can attach a hose and load the contents into their tank.
One tank is located nearby the house and includes a hose bib for use of a garden hose and gasoline pump to spray water.
The other tank is located near the road and has easy access to fire trucks.
To keep algae build up to a minimum the tanks are wrapped in black plastic to prevent light from hitting the tanks. Additionally they are treated with bleach at the rate of 1/8th teaspoon per gallon.
This is the kind of project that you hope never is needed, but good to have "just in case"
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| A Cam Lock fitting is used for quick connection |
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| Wrapping the tanks in 6 mil black plastic is like one REALLY big Christmas present |
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| Almost ready to go |
Very cool! They look professional, good job. Now how are you going to fill them? How do you let the fire department know they are even there?
ReplyDeleteThey look so professionally finished. Congratulations! We have the same questions that Mandy posted. How do you keep them full? Will they expand when frozen this winter? I think they are of great comfort when one sees the devastating effects of forest fires. Good for you and Julie!
ReplyDeleteWe filled them using the neighborhood fire truck. They have an ounce of detergent per gallon of water to serve as a wetting agent to help the water adhere to objects.
ReplyDeleteThe fire department is aware of the water supply and happy it is here.
I feel better with those up there. Now if we could just get a defibrillator machine somehow....
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