Personal Property Dry Hydrant Cistern Installations - Fire Protection & Insurance Risk Mitigation for Your Home
Fire & Wildfire Protection Starts with Reliable Water Access
In Ontario, preparing your home for fire risks begins with having a reliable on-site water source. For off-grid properties, this means access to high-volume water such as a dedicated tank, pond, or lake. At Blue Bear, we specialize in the installation of Dry Hydrant Cisterns (DH&C) designed specifically for residential fire and wildfire protection.
Our underground water storage systems are built to meet NFPA 1142 and local municipal standards, with capacities ranging from 5,000 to over 30,000 US gallons. Whether for wildfire defense or general fire emergencies, our turnkey solutions include expert design, professional installation, and inspections or maintenance.
Why install a fire prevention cistern?
Your insurance company and/or municipality require you to have one
Wildfire readiness for high risk regions
Immediate water access where municipal hydrants don’t exist
Faster drafting for fire departments via dedicated Storz connections
Year-round protection: drought-proof and freeze-protected systems
Supports insurance and municipal wildfire safety requirements
Our Services
Cistern design & installation (underground or insulated above-ground)
Dry hydrant connections with 4" or 6" fittings
Site planning & approvals with local fire departments
Signage & access pads for fast response
Annual inspection & maintenance programs
Emergency water supply planning for residential, commercial, and community sites
Technical Specifications (typical)
Storage volume: 5,000+ US gallon tanks
Polyethylene, fiberglass, or concrete construction
Pumps and hose preparation
Insulated/heated options for above-ground installations
Direct connection to dry hydrants or fire pump intakes
Design aligned with NFPA 1142 and NFPA 25 testing principles
Our Process
Determine Fire Flow Needed – FUS Formula: RFF = 220C√A
Site assessment – location, access, and optimal tank placement
Design & permitting – specifications approved by your local fire service
Installation – tank placement, fittings, and drafting access features
Testing & handover – operational readiness with O&M documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fire prevention cistern for wildfire-prone areas?
A fire prevention cistern is a dedicated underground water storage tank that provides an immediate water source for firefighting during fire and wildfire events. They are commonly installed on rural off-grid propertie, such as homes, remote properties, chalets, cabins, cottages, etc.
How big should a fire prevention cistern be for wildfire protection?
Sizing depends on property location, fire department requirements, and wildfire risk level. In wildfire-prone areas across Canada, cisterns typically range from 5,000–30,000 US gallons. Systems should meet local building codes, NFPA 1142 standards, regional firefighting and muicipal guidelines.
Do fire prevention cisterns require regular inspections or maintenance?
Yes. Whether in Ontario, BC, Alberta, or other regions, fire cisterns should be inspected periodically to ensure hydrants, valves, and fittings are operational, water levels are maintained, and the tank remains free of debris or damage. In wildfire regions, annual inspections are imperative to ensure you're ready when it matters most.
Can a fire prevention cistern also support household water use?
Regulations usually require a dedicated reserve volume for firefighting, and a separate source and independent system for potable water. We meet local codes while providing both options, ensuring wildfire readiness without compromising daily water usage supply.
How big should a fire cistern be in BC, Alberta, or Ontario?
Most residential and small commercial properties require 10,000–30,000+ US gallons. Local fire departments may set minimum capacities.
Can I add a smaller potable-only storage tank if I'm off-grid?
Yes, a potable water tank can be installed on the same property.
Do fire cisterns freeze in winter?
Underground tanks are naturally frost-protected, and dug to municipal spec requirements. Above-ground tanks are insulated and can include heating systems and bubblers.
Do I need municipal approval?
Often yes, especially for new construction or significant upgrades. We manage the approval processes and help coordinate as needed.
Book a site assessment
Send us an email to discuss a personal property dry hydrant:
Email: Andrew@BlueBearWaterworks.ca