Collection basins and open circuit lines for forest fires: Efficient water logistics for emergencies

Wildfires pose enormous challenges for emergency responders around the world. One of the key tasks in fighting wildfires is ensuring a reliable water supply, even in remote and difficult-to-access areas. Collection basins and open circuits play a crucial role in this context. In this blog post, we explain why collection basins are needed, what types exist, and how they, when combined with open circuits, can increase firefighting efficiency.

Why are reservoirs essential during forest fires?

Collection basins serve as temporary water reservoirs strategically positioned near fires. They enable flexible and rapid water supply, especially in areas where no fixed water sources such as fire hydrants or rivers are available.

The main advantages of collection basins:

Flexibility: They can be set up in almost any location.

Efficiency: Reduction of long transport routes for fire engines.

Capacity: Large quantities of water can be stored and retrieved when needed.

Support for aerial firefighting: They serve as refill stations for firefighting helicopters and aircraft.

Especially in the case of forest fires, which often rage in remote regions, collection basins are an indispensable tool for ensuring the supply of extinguishing water.

Types of collection basins and their uses

There are different types of collection tanks, which are selected depending on the location and requirements. Here are the most common types:

1. Foldable collection basins

These mobile pools are made of robust, waterproof material and can be set up in minutes. They are particularly easy to transport and ideal for temporary use.

Advantages:

Fast setup

Space-saving transport

Various sizes available

Area of application:

Rapid water supply in hard-to-reach areas

Support of tank fire engines and pumps

2. Stable collection basins (tank containers)

These pools are made of stronger materials such as metal or plastic and offer greater stability. They are often used for longer periods or in areas with higher water demands.

Advantages:

High stability

Large capacity

Area of application:

Stationary water storage in central areas of operation

Supply of pump systems

3. Natural reservoirs

In some cases, natural resources such as ponds, lakes, or artificial reservoirs can be used. However, these require careful planning and, if necessary, technical support to extract the water efficiently.

Advantages:

No additional infrastructure required

Large quantities of water available

Area of application:

Supplementing existing water supply

Use in areas with natural water resources

Open circuit series: The connection between the collection tank and the point of use

Open circuits are a proven method for transporting water from reservoirs or other sources directly to the scene. They consist of a series of pumps that pump the water over long distances and hoses that direct it to the fire.

Advantages of open switching series:

Bridging long distances: Water can be transported over several kilometers.

Combination with collection tank: Efficient refilling of the switching series from the collection tank.

Adaptability: The switching range can be flexibly configured depending on the terrain and requirements.

Structure of an open circuit series:

Water abstraction: From a reservoir or natural spring.

Pump stations: Mobile pumps pump the water in stages.

Hose system: High-performance hoses transport the water to the site.

The combination of collection tanks and open circuit lines ensures a water supply even in remote areas with poor infrastructure. This significantly increases the effectiveness of firefighting.

Conclusion: Efficient water logistics saves lives

Collection basins and open circuits are essential tools in fighting wildfires. They provide a flexible, reliable, and efficient water supply, even under challenging conditions. The targeted use of these technologies enables firefighters to respond to wildfires faster and more effectively, protecting both human life and the environment.

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