So, can we re-visit this thread for a moment...?
I spent 4 hours with my contractor at the pondsite a couple of weekends ago, discussing a host of ideas and changes I threw onto the table. One of them was discussing the drain at the dam...this lead to my desire for a dry hydrant. He stops, looks at me quizically and asks what I would want that for. I made the obvious response "for house fire protection". He dryly responded "if there's a fire that needs a hydrant to put it out, most folks just use a fan". I can't say I totally disagree.
Anyway, I told him that I was going to approach the fire fighting force for my district and ask them for the correct size fitting to put at the socket (based on websites offering 5" or 6", check your area). He thinks a moment and follows by saying that I better be careful or they will "put me on the list". (The list?) He continues to explain that suitable pond owners get on the list as a water source. Does anybody have experience with "the list"?
Later, I call a reputable, local insurance agent to ask the potential savings by having a dry hydrant/pond set up for firefighting...same thing as Theo: fuggedaboutit.
So, I am trapped by the decision and I gotta commit pretty soon. The building site is going to be right on top of the pond, and the homesite and out-structures will all be within 150 feet of the water. I plan the dry hydrant within this zone and about 30 feet off of my boat launch road (for truck access), directly adjacent to this building site.
.....or, should I buy a fan?
p.s. I am painfully aware of the horrible Lusk tragedy and in no way intend to minimize the risk of fire. I just want to make an advised and practical decision.
