Recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area, exacerbated by powerful Santa Ana winds reaching up to 100 mph, have brought public attention to the vital role of water supplies during fire emergencies. While no water system is designed to meet the extraordinary demands that extreme wildfires can cause, JCSD has long been prepared through innovative planning and infrastructure investments. We understand the importance of reliable water supply in fire response efforts and are committed to ensuring that the Eastvale and Jurupa Valley communities are equipped to handle such emergencies.

JCSD’s Fire Response: Innovative and Long-Term Planning

At JCSD, we take proactive steps to ensure we are prepared for fire emergencies. Here’s how we’re ready to support firefighting efforts:

Heli-Hydrants

JCSD launched the first of four heli-hydrants in its services area. As the first of its kind in the Inland Empire, these 10,000-gallon reservoirs help aerial firefighting efforts by providing a quick-fill water source that refill in minutes. The JCSD Heli-Hydrant project is a fundamental shift in the role of water agencies in supporting firefighting efforts, ensuring a faster response to wildfires.

Learn more about the JCSD Heli-Hydrants at www.JCSD.us/HeliHydrant.

Reservoir Capacity 

JCSD manages 15 reservoirs in Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. These reservoirs provide capacity to deliver millions of gallons of water during fire emergencies and support firefighting efforts. When JCSD personnel are notified of a fire in its service area, water storage is increased to meet demand to aid firefighters in their response.

Backup Power Systems 

To maintain water service during power outages, JCSD has implemented comprehensive backup power systems, including strategically placed generators at critical facilities. These systems ensure that even in the event of power loss, JCSD can continue to provide reliable water service for fire suppression and other essential needs.

Emergency Preparedness Training

JCSD has an extensive emergency response plan and staff undergo extensive emergency preparedness training and participate in regular drills to ensure they are prepared for a variety of emergency scenarios. This training helps the team respond swiftly and efficiently to unexpected situations, minimizing risks to public safety and service reliability.

24/7 On-Call Staff

JCSD’s staff is always on-call and ready to respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our dedicated team is trained to respond quickly to any emergency, ensuring that water systems are operational and ready for use in times of crisis.

Maintaining Water Pressure 

JCSD maintains adequate water pressure across its 9 pressure zones to ensure reliable water service throughout our service area. During fire events, JCSD increases water capacity by using its reservoirs and strategically managing system flow to provide pressure for firefighting efforts.

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Tips to Prepare for Emergencies 

Preparing for emergencies, particularly fire-related ones, is essential to safeguard your family, home, and community. Here are steps you can take to stay ready:

Clear flammable vegetation and debris to a safe distance from your home. Trim trees and shrubs to reduce fire spread.

Include essentials like 2 weeks’ worth of water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, flashlights, and first aid supplies.

Identify multiple escape routes and designate a meeting place. Practice evacuation drills regularly.

Subscribe to local emergency notification systems to receive real-time updates.

Regularly clean gutters, roofs, and outdoor areas to remove dry leaves and debris that can catch fire.

Ensure smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom and common area, and test them monthly.