UCLA researchers have released a new guide addressing common questions about expanding water resources for firefighting in the regions of Altadena and the Palisades, amid ongoing rebuilding from recent wildfires. The guide highlights that urban firefighting agencies are ill-equipped to handle wildfires independently, stating that “no amount of water or any urban water system currently existing in the world could have stopped the fires completely.”
The researchers emphasize the need for additional measures beyond expanded water systems, such as home-hardening and creating defensible space. They underline that managing wildland areas, making homes more fire-safe, and investing more in firefighting forces to provide the necessary resources will be critical in future fire combat efforts.
One excerpt from the report mentions that “urban firefighting agencies are not designed to fight wildfires on their own,” citing the necessity of fire departments’ personpower, equipment, and supplies alongside favorable weather conditions. The guide points out that fire hydrants, while effective for urban fires, are not suitable for combating wildfires, especially during high usage or under damaged infrastructure conditions.
The authors suggest that better public infrastructure or private investments could enhance water systems’ firefighting capabilities. These improvements might include increasing local water supply, enhancing water infrastructure, and bolstering power supply to maintain water pressure. The guide also advocates for policy measures that require private property owners to adopt fire protection investments, such as roof sprinkler systems and private hydrants.
Ultimately, the guide stresses, “no amount of water supply can prevent or end the scale of the January 2025 LA fires,” and recommends a comprehensive approach to fire preparedness, including preventing further climate change to limit future wildfire risks.
Prominent contributors to the guide include Gregory Pierce, Research and Co-Executive Director at UCLA’s Luskin Center for Innovation, and Silvia R. González, Director of Research at the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute.
The full guide can be accessed through UCLA Newsroom, with opportunities to connect with the experts for further insights.
