Fire service cuts water use as Devon and Somerset face severe drought

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 15:38 · Archive

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is limiting water use, including halting mains water for training drills, as reservoirs fall critically low.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has voluntarily restricted its water usage as drought conditions worsen across the region. South West Water's total reservoir levels are at 30 per cent as of 20 October, compared with 49 per cent at the same time in 2025. Wimbleball reservoir on Exmoor has fallen to just 13 per cent, against 26 per cent for the same period last year.

The fire service is limiting vehicle washing to what is necessary for safe and legal operation and has stopped using mains water during drill nights and training that does not involve live fire. However, the service will continue to use water for live fire training, which operational fire crews undertake annually to maintain their skills. The fire service confirmed these measures will not compromise its operational response to emergencies.

South West Water has already applied for a non-essential use ban which could impact parts of East and Mid Devon. A South West Water spokesperson welcomed the fire service's decision, stating: 'We welcome efforts from all businesses and services to reduce non essential water use during the current severe drought.'

How it is being reported

• Fire service cuts water usage in Devon amid severe droughtIts response to emergencies won’t be impacted but limited fire engine washing and not using mains water during drill nights are among measures being taken to preserve water.DevonLive · 21 Oct, 15:05
• Fire service stops using mains water for training as 'severe' drought continues in Devon and SomersetDevon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service says it is limiting vehicle washing and cutting non-essential use while still attending emergenciesNorth Devon Gazette · 21 Oct, 12:00

In this story: Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service · South West Water · Devon · Somerset · Wimbleball reservoir · Exmoor

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