City of Murrieta logoIn October 2021, Murrieta Fire & Rescue took delivery of a new water tender, which greatly increases firefighting capabilities during local wildfires and remote structure fires. The new tactical water tender is a mobile water source for fighting fires. Since arriving in Murrieta, the department has outfitted the new apparatus with the tools, equipment, communications gear, and electronics necessary for the new water tender to be fully operational. In-service training for all fire suppression personnel, a critical element in order to put the equipment into service, has been completed and in late December the new apparatus officially went into service.  

Built by Boise Mobile Equipment in Boise, Idaho, the new water tender replaces a 2004 model and provides significant operational advantages that include a foam system, drafting capability, and 4-wheel drive that will allow firefighters to access more remote areas during wildfires, where the previous water tender could not.  Holding 1,800 gallons of water, the new water tender is designed specifically for fires in more rugged terrain,  helping supply water for the fireline. For areas of Murrieta where there are no fire hydrants, the added 4- wheel drive and larger water capacity will significantly improve overall firefighting operations allowing crews to fight fires for longer. 

The new tender pumps water into the tank at a higher rate and also offloads water with greater pressure,  which is critically important on the scene of a fire. 

Interim Murrieta Fire & Rescue Fire Chief Mike Lopez noted the importance of the new piece of equipment.  “Thanks to Measure T, we have increased our service capabilities by purchasing this tactical water tender,  which is safer and has more features than our older water tender. This new mobile water source is flexible and very effective for wildland and structural responses. It can carry a large amount of water and firefighting equipment to provide suppression when needed. This is one of many tools that make us on the cutting edge of fire service delivery,” emphasized Chief Lopez. 

The new water tender will be housed at Murrieta Fire Station 2, located on California Oaks Road, which is centrally located for citywide responses. The tender was fully funded by Measure T, which is a voter-approved local 1% sales tax to provide funding for general services, including faster response times to 911 emergencies and improved fire protection/paramedic services. 

For more information about Murrieta Fire & Rescue and to get safety alerts and updates, visit their website and follow them on social media.