For a pre-incident plan for water shuttle operations, what is the best choice for a fill site?

The best choice for a fill site in a pre-incident plan for water shuttle operations is a large pond in a park three miles away. This option is advantageous because ponds typically offer a substantial volume of water and can often be used to fill tankers with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. In firefighting operations, particularly during water shuttle scenarios, access to a significant and reliable water source is crucial to maintain the flow of water to the fire scene.

Although a local fire station with a hydrant might appear to be a suitable option, its proximity and potential capacity may be limited in a high-demand scenario. Furthermore, if the hydrant is not connected to a sufficient water supply or if there are pressure issues, this could hinder operations.

The 24-hour convenience store parking lot is not ideal as a fill site due to logistical challenges and possible vehicle obstructions, which would complicate the operations. Additionally, a residential swimming pool may lack the necessary water volume and could lead to issues with legality or property damage, making it a less reliable source for filling tankers.

In contrast, a large pond provides a more practical solution with a consistent supply of water, which is essential for effective firefighting efforts during water shuttle operations.