Advertorial, By Joan Carlson

Enjoying the beauty of our Southern California Mountains also means acknowledging the ever-present fire dangers. Duke Rennie understands fire firsthand but doesn’t ring his hands or rely on “fate” to keep his home in Sugarloaf from harm.

In the 1970’s Duke saved his business down the hill from possible destruction by fire. Prior to the potentially devastating event, Duke purchased a 1929 fire engine. He restored it, parked it outside his furniture factory, and even filled its 500 gallon water tank. “It was a great draw for the kids,” recalls Duke.

On the day the fire broke out, Duke could see that the major threat to his building was the hot embers blowing his way, threatening the safety of his roof. With no help in sight, Duke took action and made use of what was readily available. Within reach stood a source of water and the means to direct it where needed. The fire engine’s water pump kept the menacing fire at bay. Duke was able to save his own building and help protect others around him. This life-changing event inspired Duke to develop “Fire Ready Systems”.

By embarking on this business venture, Duke hopes to provide the means to protect homes throughout the Valley and beyond. He has devised a far more practical and efficient operation than his old fire truck by using large plastic tanks for the water storage. He then incorporates an efficient and durable water pump configured specifically for the system. A fire fighting nozzle is attached to 100 feet of high pressure hose that remains wound around a top quality reel, all ready until needed. According to Duke, a tank holding 5000 gallons or less does not require a building permit and a tank this size allows ten times more water storage than Duke’s fire engine. Once in place, the Fire Ready System is sufficient to accommodate most private homes.

Duke admits, “The system will only help those willing to stay and defend their property. I learned firsthand the importance of having water available and the means to use it when your property is threatened by fire.”

Duke is more than willing to show off the Fire Ready System constructed on his Sugarloaf property. He will also bring his portable unit to you to demonstrate what the system can do and its ease of operation.

For more information, contact Duke at (310) 420-4631. Also check the website: www.firereadysystems.com.

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