We provide
installation or replacement of Automatic Sprinklers

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.