Can You Call the Fire Department to Fill Your Pool?

Introduction

Have you ever found yourself needing to fill your pool but without access to a water source? It can be tempting to call on the fire department to help out, but is that actually a possibility? As it turns out, the answer is not so straightforward.

My own experience with this question led me to do some research and find out what the experts have to say. In this article, I’ll share my findings and explore the various factors that come into play when considering whether or not to call the fire department to fill your pool.

Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts

• According to a survey conducted by the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments responded to an average of 3,700 calls per year related to swimming pools or spas from 2014-2023.
• Some fire departments do offer pool-filling services, but it varies by location and availability.
• The cost of having the fire department fill your pool can range from free to several hundred dollars, depending on the department and the amount of water needed.
• In some cases, calling the fire department to fill your pool may actually be against local ordinances or regulations.

Expert Opinions

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not to call the fire department to fill your pool, experts generally advise against it unless it’s an emergency situation.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Water delivery from a fire department should be reserved for emergency situations and not for routine maintenance or water deliveries.

Similarly, the California State Fire Marshal’s Office notes that The Fire Service is not a public utility and is not intended for the filling of swimming pools, spas or other non-emergency water supply.

Some fire departments may also have concerns about the safety of their personnel when filling a pool, as well as the potential liability if something were to go wrong.

Personal Experiences

While opinions and regulations may vary, there are plenty of personal anecdotes out there related to calling the fire department to fill a pool.

One pool owner in Florida reported calling the fire department to fill their pool because their well had run dry. The fire department was able to help out, but noted that they may not have been able to do so if there had been an emergency situation happening at the same time.

On the other hand, another pool owner in California reported being denied by their local fire department when they requested pool-filling assistance. They ended up hiring a private water delivery service instead, which cost them several hundred dollars.

My personal experience has been to avoid calling the fire department altogether and opt for other solutions, such as hiring a water delivery service or using a neighbor’s hose (with permission, of course).

FAQs

Below are some of the most common questions related to calling the fire department to fill your pool:

Is it legal to call the fire department to fill your pool?

It depends on your location and the specific regulations in place. Some areas may have ordinances against it, while others may allow it under certain circumstances. It’s best to check with your local fire department or government office to find out the rules in your area.

How much does it cost to have the fire department fill your pool?

The cost can vary widely depending on the department and the amount of water needed. Some fire departments may offer the service for free, while others may charge several hundred dollars. It’s important to check with your local department for pricing information.

Why shouldn’t I call the fire department to fill my pool?

While some fire departments may offer pool-filling services, it’s generally not recommended unless it’s an emergency situation. Calling the fire department for routine pool maintenance can tie up resources that may be needed for other emergencies. Additionally, some departments may have safety concerns or be restricted by regulations from filling pools.