In Australia, fire isn’t just a seasonal concern, it’s a year-round responsibility. With bushfire being a real threat to both rural and urban areas, having the right water storage in place for firefighting purposes is essential. Whether you’re managing a farm, running a business in a high-risk zone, or overseeing a residential development, understanding the water storage requirements for fire protection can make all the difference in an emergency.
Water storage for firefighting isn’t just about having a tank on hand, it’s about ensuring that tank meets local regulations, holds the right amount of water, and is accessible in a moment of crisis. Most local councils and fire authorities will have minimum requirements in place, particularly in bushfire-prone areas. These can include having a dedicated water supply that’s clearly marked, fitted with appropriate fittings for fire trucks access, and maintained regularly to ensure water quality and pressure.
For rural properties, a typical recommendation might be around 20,000 to 50,000 litres of water reserved specifically for firefighting. However, this can vary depending on the property size, location, and risk category. Some regions may even require higher volumes or multiple tanks to meet compliance.
Accessibility is also key. Tanks should be positioned so that emergency services can reach them quickly. This often means having standardised fire hose fittings. Fitting requirements differ between states. In New South Wales, a 65mm STORZ outlet is standard, whereas in Victoria, the outlet must be equipped with a CFS-approved round male coupling (64mm, 3 thread, 25x50mm nominal bore British Standard Pipe). To ensure adequate water pressure, all piping and valves connecting the outlet to the tank must have a minimum 50mm nominal bore.
If you are using a single water tank for both domestic use and firefighting, it must have two separate outlets, one dedicated to household use and the other reserved for firefighting. The outlet supplying water to your home should be positioned higher up on the tank, ensuring that the water below this point remains available exclusively for firefighting purposes.
Its also worth noting that not all water tanks are created equal when it comes to firefighting. Tanks made from UV-stabilised poly materials, like Enmach’s range of heavy-duty water storage tanks, offer long-term durability and are designed to withstand harsh Australian conditions. Plus, their range of sizes and colours means you can find a tank that not only meets safety standards but also fits into your property layout without compromising on appearance.
However, it’s important to understand the limitations of different materials. Poly tanks can warp or melt above the water line under extreme bushfire conditions. Likewise, many people assume that steel tanks will hold up better, but they too can lose structural integrity during intense heat, often leading to water leakage at the seams.
Disclaimer: Fire performance of water tanks can differ depending on specific design, installation, and the severity of fire exposure. Always consult local fire authorities and building regulations when choosing a water storage solution for fire preparedness.
Planning and ensuring your water storage complies with your local fire authority’s requirements isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about protecting your home, land or business when it matters most. Investing in a reliable water tank today could be the difference that helps save lives and property tomorrow.
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