AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
How Automatic Sprinklers Work
Automatic sprinkler systems supply water to a network of individual overhead sprinklers, each protecting an area below them. These sprinklers open automatically in response to heat and spray water on the fire to put it out or keep it from spreading. Contrary to popular belief, in standard installations, only those sprinklers near the fire open and spray water.
Sprinklers Save Lives
Approximately 6,000 people die in fires in the United States each year. Yet, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) records covering most of the century show no instances of fires killing three or more people in a house, apartment, hotel or motel where a complete sprinkler system was installed and operating properly. The NFPA estimates that the risk of dying in a fire in hotels and motels, health care facilities and manufacturing plants has already been reduced by at least half where sprinklers are installed. In commercial properties - stores, restaurants, etc. - NFPA records show comparable figures. The few exceptions have involved explosions or other special circumstances.
Sprinklers Save Property
NFPA studies show that, in a fire, automatic sprinkler systems also save thousands of dollars in property loss. Estimated savings include:
$8,100.00 per fire in restaurants, nightclubs and other "public-assembly" properties
$7,900.00 per fire in educational properties
$5,700.00 per fire in stores and offices
$12,100.00 per fire in manufacturing and industrial sites
In addition, sprinkler systems installed in commercial property can pay for themselves in as little as five years through reduced insurance premiums.
Installation
Commercial or residential automatic sprinkler systems should be installed by a qualified contractor who is familiar with NFPA codes and standards as well as with local fire safety regulations.
Myths About Automatic Sprinklers
MYTH: THE WATER DAMAGE FROM SPRINKLERS IS WORSE THAN THE FIRE
The truth is, a sprinkler puts far less water on a fire than a fire hose would. Automatic systems spray water only in the immediate area of the fire and can keep the fire from spreading to the point where widespread damage is unavoidable.
MYTH: SPRINKLERS GO OFF ACCIDENTALLY, CAUSING UNNECESSARY WATER DAMAGE
Accidental water damage caused by automatic sprinkler systems is relatively rare. One study concluded that sprinkler accidents are generally less likely and less severe than mishaps involving standard home plumbing systems.
MYTH: SPRINKLERS ARE UGLY
Sprinklers don't have to be unattractive. Pipes can be hidden behind ceilings or walls and modern sprinklers can be inconspicuous - mounted almost flush with walls or ceilings. Some sprinklers can even be concealed.
Sprinklers In The Home
Four-fifths of all fire deaths occur in homes, and according to a study by the National Institute of Standard Technology (NIST), 60 to 70% of those deaths could be prevented by adding sprinkler systems to houses and apartments.
Since 1980, "fast response" sprinklers have been available for use in residential occupancies such as houses and apartments. Lightweight piping materials are available and can be used to supply sprinklers. Some of these sprinklers may be supplied from a common household watersupply when installed in a 1 or 2 family dwelling.
Thanks to the use of modern materials and designs, the cost of residential sprinkler systems has come down. Estimates suggest that installing such a system would add 1 to 1 1/2 % to the cost of new housing. They can also be installed in existing buildings.