Firefighting helicopters in California can use swimming pool water to put out fires

[willygee]

Well that's one way to lower CYA

Fact check: Firefighting helicopters in California can use swimming pool water to put out fires

A viral Instagram post mixes some truths in its claim firefighting helicopters can source water from swimming pools during a fire.

www.usatoday.com

 

[markayash]

Come home and wonder why your pool is 3' low

 

[Woodstock1234]

Yep. It's a typical practice if you do not have a hydrant close, but you have a pool. The insurance company "counts" it as a water source in case of a fire. There's only so much water that trucks can hold.

 

[willygee]

Years ago our house with a pool in San Diego had instructions endorsed by the fire department using the pool pump to hose down the roof and surrounding area... Actually had to climb the roof and use it as there was a canyon fire nearby.

 

[Selenap]

I live right next to the GSMNP. My pool can be commandeered for firefighters. The good news is there is a good sized lake a mile down the mountain so the chances of my pool water being absconded is slim, but never zero. Lol

 

[HeyEng]

I would have no issue with this as long as they left the robot behind!

 

[A.O.]

I've had them dip water out of my ponds, but never my pool, that was in Oklahoma..