Introduction
Faced with growing requirements for External Fire Protection (DECI), many communes are looking for reliable, economical and quick-to-implement solutions. The commune of Ligré, located in Indre-et-Loire, has chosen to equip itself with CITERNEO flexible tanks in order to secure its territory in the long term and guarantee the protection of its inhabitants.
Through this testimonial, the community looks back on more than ten years of experience with this equipment and on the relationship of trust forged with CITERNEO teams.
Interview conducted with Bernard Thivel, Mayor, and Michel Brunet, Deputy Mayor, on May 23, 2025.
In what context did you choose to equip yourself with flexible tanks?
We made this choice to meet the requirements of regulations linked to External Defense Against Fires (DECI), in order to ensure the safety of our citizens' property.
Why CITERNEO?
CITERNEO is a French, local manufacturer, recognized for its seriousness and expertise in the flexible tank market for over 17 years.
We've enjoyed lasting relationships for over 10 years now.
Trust is also based on the company's certifications (ISO 9001, QB09, Origine France Garantie) as well as recognition of their societal approach by ECOVADIS.
What are the main benefits you derive from this solution?
The flexible tanks are practical, economical, ecological and fully compliant with current standards.
They are also easy to install thanks to the documentation provided by CITERNEO.
How is the installation of the tanks going in your commune?
We chose to entrust the installation to our communal Technical Service.
This enables us to control costs while guaranteeing controlled installation.
Have you benefited from any subsidies?
Since 2019, we have benefited from State subsidies (DETR and Fonds Vert), covering between 50% and 70% of the cost of purchasing and installing the flexible tanks.
How are CITERNEO's flexible tanks perceived in the commune?
The visual impact is limited thanks to their green color, which blends into the landscape.
Each installation is thought through to remain as unobtrusive as possible.
An awareness campaign is also conducted to inform residents of their usefulness and to obtain the necessary town planning authorizations.
Can you share some feedback on fire defense?
Yes. During a fire in our commune, a flexible tank was used by the firefighters, who appreciated the efficiency of the swivel connection.
Once refilled, it was immediately operational.
This event confirmed the value of equipping our commune and reinforced our citizens' understanding of the usefulness of these reserves.
How did your collaboration with CITERNEO go?
We enjoy excellent relations with the sales and technical teams. Their support is constant, professional and tailored to our needs.
Would you like to add anything?
We've been putting our trust in CITERNEO for fire prevention for over 10 years now.
The first tanks installed in 2015 are still working, which confirms the quality of the equipment.
We also appreciated the quality visit organized by CITERNEO, during which we were able to discuss with Nicolas Clairet (Assistant Manager) and Xavier Francescat (QHSE Manager) and demonstrate our confidence in them.
Conclusion
Ligré's experience perfectly illustrates the current challenges facing rural and peri-urban communes: meeting regulatory obligations, enhancing fire safety and optimizing public budgets.
Thanks to their ease of installation, durability and performance recognized by emergency services, CITERNEO flexible tanks are a reliable and sustainable solution for protecting territories.
This testimonial reinforces CITERNEO's place as a preferred partner for communities committed to safety and responsible resource management.