Canton Firefighters Tend To These Little-Known Pieces Of Equipment

CANTON, CT — Folks living in some of Canton's more rural sections of town can rest assured knowing the Canton Fire & EMS Department is out preparing for something they hope to never need.

This week, firefighters spent time tending to several water cisterns located in some of the rural sections of town, specifically, Secret Mountain Road and Shallot Meadow.

Those neighborhoods lack fire hydrants, but the cisterns are large, underground water tanks that can quickly supply a tanker truck with much-needed water should a fire break out.

"With warmer weather upon us, Fire crews were out Monday night ensuring our community is prepared for any situation," wrote the fire department.

"Crews were busy filling water cisterns on Secret Mountain Rd and Shallot Meadow—vital resources in areas without fire hydrants."

Cistern maintenance is a little-known responsibility for local firefighters, which — according to the department — can also benefit homeowners as well.

"Regular checks and maintenance of these cisterns help us stay ready for fire incidents and support our ISO rating which affects homeowner insurance ratings," wrote firefighters.

"Safety is always our top priority."