Wildfire Defense FAQ: Using a Fire Hydrant, Pool Pump and Hoses to Protect Your Home

Straight answers from Sherwin "Ace" Ross, founder of Ace Fire Defense, a LAFD-certified Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member and NFPA member with 42 years of manufacturing experience. Rules vary by city and water district, so check with your local fire department, and always follow evacuation orders.

Can I legally use the fire hydrant in front of my house to defend my home?

In many jurisdictions, homeowners are allowed to use the hydrant in front of their own home in an emergency if they have the right equipment. Rules differ by city and water district, so ask your local fire department or water utility before fire season. Read the full story of how this changed the way I prepare: The Woolsey Fire Story.

What equipment do I need to use a fire hydrant to defend my home?

You need a hydrant wrench to remove the cap (we use a 24 inch hydrant wrench), a fire hose, a gated WYE valve, and a nozzle. Ace Fire Defense makes fire hoses, brass hydrant valves, hydrant wrenches, nozzles, and fire blankets that are designed to work together, so you do not have to hunt down parts that do not fit.

How do I use a fire hydrant, step by step?

Step 1: Use the hydrant wrench to remove the hydrant cap, then connect your hose and gated WYE valve with both gates closed. Step 2: Open the hydrant slowly. Never open a hydrant fast. Step 3: Open each gate, then open the nozzle and put water on the fire. Practice with your family and neighbors before an emergency. Watch the demonstrations on our How To Videos page.

What if there is no fire hydrant on my street?

If you have a swimming pool, you can use it as your water source. The Ace Fire Defense Pool Pump Kit includes a Honda WH15 pump, a Big Red 1-3/4 inch by 100 foot attack hose with 1.5 inch aluminum couplings, a brass adapter, a Honda suction hose, a 1.5 inch fog spray nozzle, gas and motor oil, and our gated WYE valve, with complimentary setup and training. Learn more: Choosing the right pump for pool or lake fire defense.

What actually burns down homes in a wildfire?

Wind-blown embers, which can land well ahead of the fire front, are a leading cause of home loss. A hose, a gated valve, and a nozzle let you put water on embers before they become fires. See Wildfires Don't Start With Flames, They Start With Embers.

Who is Ace Fire Defense?

Ace Fire Defense is a family business in West Hills, California, founded after the 2018 Woolsey Fire burned through the neighborhood. Founder Sherwin "Ace" Ross has 42 years of manufacturing experience, is a LAFD-certified CERT member and NFPA member, and has provided fire safety support on Tony Robbins' Ultimate Fire Team for 25 years. Learn more on our About page.

How do I contact Ace Fire Defense?

Call +1 213-884-8448 or use our contact page. Visit our YouTube channel for weekly hydrant how-tos and Zone 0 tips.