To keep your pond “fire retention ready” there are a few things you will need to do. The water must be kept free of excess weeds and algae that could get stuck in the water pump. Thankfully there are enzyme products and other additives that can help combat weed and algae growth. It also must be free of ice in the winter. In addition, the dry hydrant must be checked periodically for silt and weeds. Make sure you use a screen or other filtration device to keep debris from entering the hydrant while not in use.
Because the pond must be accessible by fire equipment, there also must be road access to your pond. Again, check your local fire department to learn more about what kind of vehicles they use and what kind of terrain they can access. It also helps to use reflective equipment or lights, so fire departments have easier night access to the pond.
Regular monitoring will give you an indication of how well the pool is performing. Things to check for include:
- Water levels within the pond: Sudden drops or increases in water level can mean that a pump or drain isn’t functioning properly, or that emergency spillways are no longer allowing water to escape.
- The health of wetland plants in and around the pond perimeter: These plants help to reduce pollutants that are absorbed in the water, while also keeping the pond structurally secure. Sudden die-offs around the border of the pond can mean something is off within the water, like increased chemical contents, or anaerobic conditions.
- The condition of the land surrounding the pond: Specifically, indicators that any leakage has taken place, such as patches of newly saturated or unstable earth.
- Record and monitor the age and health of your installed equipment: The pieces and structure of your retention pool were not designed to last forever. These should be replaced as they near their expected lifespan, before major damage occurs and allows consequences to expand. Keep a record of these expected lifespans, and make sure that retention pond maintenance includes policies of component replacement.
- Respond to any traumatic or emergency events: Any significant damage to the pond itself, or any extreme weather conditions, can seriously affect the lifespan of the retention pond. Make sure to respond to these events in a timely and effective manner, and to consider whether repair or replacement is required to keep your pool well-maintained. (This is typically understood as inspecting the pond within 24 hours of the most recent extreme weather cycle).
Finally, If you are interested in installing a fire retention pond—or refurbishing an existing pond for fire retention purposes—make sure you check with your insurance provider. Many offer discounts for properties featuring fire retention ponds. BTL Liners provides industrial strength pond liners for fire retention ponds. Our liners are available in a variety of thicknesses, strengths, and warranties. They are made from reinforced polyethylene (RPE) and are puncture and tear resistant. Contact us for more information about building a fire retention pond for your community.