Can a building with a sprinkler system burn? The answer could be seen in a Chester apartment fire, a couple of weeks ago. The next question is how? In this case, the news reported that the fire started on a third floor balcony. Balconies and attic spaces are normally not sprinklered. You must understand the workings of a sprinkler system, in order to understand this part of the explanation.
Most sprinkler systems are wet-type systems, with water right to the sprinkler head. When the fusible link gives way due to heat, the sprinkler head begins flowing water immediately. The problem with this type of system is that it freezes in extremely cold temperatures. Just like the ionization detector is the most common type of smoke alarm, the wet-type sprinkler system is the most common system. In a place where extreme cold is inevitable, a dry-type system is mandated. The dry-type system is charged with air. When the sprinkler head activates, air leaves the system and water then flows from the head. Balconies and attics, if sprinklered in this area, would require a dry-type system.
Do not get the wrong idea about this article. It is not my intent to downplay the importance of all buildings needing a sprinkler system. You have heard me say in the past that the best means of protection, in the event of a residential fire, is a sprinkler system, in conjunction with properly located, number of and operating smoke alarms. No system is completely fail-proof. However, the probability of survival goes up exponentially, where a system exists.
Another way that a sprinklered building can burn is if the system has been disabled. There are two ways that a system gets disabled, construction or sabotage. This is why buildings under construction suffer extreme damage, if they catch fire. It is also why fire inspectors mandate a fire watch when a sprinkler system is out of service, in any given commercial occupancy. Sabotage occurs when a person or persons seek to hurt people or do damage. Fortunately, most systems are monitored, even against tampering.
One other way that a sprinklered building burns is if the fire overcomes the sprinkler system. As I stated in last week’s article, Christmas trees that dry out and catch fire, burn as if gasoline has been thrown on the fire. It is unlikely that a fire will overcome the sprinkler system, but again, if the fire starts in an unsprinklered area, it has the opportunity to get a head start, before the sprinkler system activates.
Sprinkler systems are needed in commercial and residential occupancies. If you live in a building that has a sprinkler system, you have a higher level of fire protection. You may want to look and see what parts of your apartment, house or business are not protected by the system. This is an area that is, pretty much, unprotected and should not have things stored there, nor should it be a place where fire-related activities take place. Incidentally, it is against county ordinance to use a grill on any apartment balcony. If properly maintained, the sprinkler system will do its job, but you must also have a practiced escape plan in place.
