GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR STORAGE TANKS

The Mississippi State Rating Bureau in its evaluation of fire protection facilities allows credit for alternate water sources. There are various water supplies that may be used to support a water shuttle or relay process. One of these methods is via placing storage tanks throughout the area which can be used to fill tankers.

The Mississippi State Rating Bureau will recognize these tanks as a water source if the following conditions are met.

• A minimum storage capacity of at least 5,000 gallons. MSRB recommends at least 10,000 gallons.

• The tank must be capable of being filled from a water system by either automatic control or a manual valve that can be turned on while tank is in use.

• Proper precautions must be made to prevent valves and tank from freezing. This can best be accomplished on above ground tanks with an electrical element. It should be installed such to guarantee a water temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit with an outside temperature of 0 degrees.

• A visual device must be installed to indicate the water level in the tank.

• An audible device (siren, horn, etc.) must be installed to assure tank water level is adequate.

If a storage tank meets the above criteria, it may be considered as an alternate water supply point.

Photo of Storage Tank used in water shuttle (Photo courtesy of Central Oktibbeha County Fire Dept)  

If you have any questions or need clarifications on any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact us.