Last night, the Lookingglass Rural Fire District had the privilege of welcoming Umpqua Basin Water Association, Inc. to our station for an in-depth training session focused on the water infrastructure that supports emergency operations within our district.

Water supply is one of the most critical elements in successful fire suppression. Unlike many structural firefighting challenges that can vary from call to call, the need for a reliable and sustained water source is constant. Understanding how our water system functions—where it is strong, where it may be limited, and how it behaves under stress—directly influences the strategies and decisions our responders make on scene.

The Importance of Water Infrastructure in Fire Suppression

Effective firefighting depends not only on having trained volunteers and appropriate equipment, but also on having access to dependable water. Hydrants, storage tanks, and distribution lines form the backbone of that effort. When firefighters know the capabilities of the water system, they can plan attack lines, determine flow requirements, and make tactical decisions that save both time and property.

Key considerations include:

• Pipe Size & Distribution: Larger pipes and well-designed distribution systems support higher flow rates. Understanding pipe diameter helps firefighters anticipate how much water they can rely on at a given hydrant.
• Flow Rates: Adequate flow is essential for interior attack, exposure protection, and controlling fire spread. Knowing the highest and lowest flow areas in the district allows crews to adjust tactics accordingly.
• Storage Tank Capacity: Storage tanks act as the backbone of water availability. Their capacity and elevation affect pressure, duration, and reliability during prolonged incidents.
• Redundancy & Vulnerability: In extreme emergencies—such as mechanical failures, line breaks, or natural disasters—certain hydrants may be impacted. Understanding these vulnerabilities ensures firefighters have contingency plans ready.

Strengthening Operations Through Understanding

LRFD is fortunate to have six hydrants within our response area. While this may seem limited compared to urban districts, each hydrant is a critical asset that supports our ability to quickly and effectively respond to structure fires, vehicle fires, and other high-demand incidents. When combined with tender operations, relay pumping, and pre-incident planning, a well-understood water system significantly enhances operational readiness.

A Valuable Training Opportunity

During the training, Umpqua Basin Water Association, Inc. provided our volunteers—both new and experienced—with detailed information on pipe sizes, system flow rates, storage tank capacities, and potential system weaknesses. This knowledge strengthens our ability to make informed decisions, improves safety on the fireground, and supports more efficient emergency response throughout the community.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Umpqua Basin Water Association, Inc. for taking the time to equip our team with this important information. Partnerships like these reinforce our shared commitment to protecting the residents of Lookingglass and ensuring the highest level of emergency preparedness.