Recent fires that consumed entire Los Angeles neighborhoods underscore a stark lesson — water utilities generally aren’t designed to respond to the large urban fires growing more common as climate change worsens. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring enough water flows to enough hydrants while demand is high and damaged pipes may be hampering the system. A total redesign may not be feasible, but experts say there are steps water utilities can take to increase the likelihood they can supply firefighters with enough water to protect homes and lives. Separate, high-pressure pipes that move water across town to dedicated hydrants that can be tapped for the worst fires have been standard in much of San Francisco for more than a century after the 1906 earthquake sparked widespread fires that burned more than 500 city blocks. Today, 135 miles of pipe are fed by a reservoir and two large tanks, used only for the biggest fires. The city has a backup reservoir, 70 backup underground cisterns that hold 70,000 Gallons each, and can pump in seawater if needed. Another issue is that chemical contaminants can be sucked into pipes, requiring extensive and costly work. In Paradise alone, where the 2018 Camp Fire killed at least 85 people and destroyed more than 18,000 structures, rebuilding the drinking water system is expected to cost $125 Million and take three-and-a half more years.