Sam DiGiovanna Fire Chief

Online, June 4, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna demonstrates the capabilities of a newly acquired five thousand gallon water tender (Water Tender 101) through a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Grant to help combat wildland fires. This vehicle has the ability to incorporate foam to protect structures during wild fires, but is not just for wildfires says DiGiovanna. During the 1994 Northridge Earthquake many water mains were broke leaving firefighters without water systems to combat structure fires. This five thousand gallon tanker can shuttle water and relay water to engine companies fighting structure fires. It can also be used to help refill fire department water dropping helicopters in remote areas. The water tender will be used for regional use. If a wildfire breaks out anywhere in California (or other states it can be utilized under both the State Master Mutual Aid Plan and Federal requests. These are specialized resources says Chief DiGiovanna. We will cross staff it with our Ladder Truck. If requested during a large scale event, the Truck Co. Captain and Engineer will man it and we will recall personnel to back-fill the Ladder Truck.