What is a “cistern”?
In rural areas where access to fire hydrants or consistent water sources is limited, cisterns play a critical role in providing supplemental water for firefighting efforts during emergencies such as wild or house fires. These structures serve as reservoirs, storing water that is essential for firefighters to suppress flames and protect lives and property.
In our up-county region, fire protection heavily relies on a continuous water supply delivered by a rotation of MCFRS tankers, including those stationed at Kingsview (W722), Hyattstown (W709), and our very own W714 at Upper Montgomery Volunteer Fire Department. These tankers, equipped with tanks holding over 3,000 gallons of water, play a crucial role in firefighting operations. However, once they exhaust their water reserves, they must swiftly replenish their supply from a dependable local source.
Recognizing the importance of ensuring an uninterrupted water supply for fire suppression efforts, the Upper Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department is undertaking the construction of a large-scale above-ground water cistern. This cistern, boasting a capacity of 130,000 gallons, is designed to resemble a farm silo. Its construction aims to significantly enhance the region’s firefighting capabilities, providing a reliable and substantial water reserve for emergencies.
