NFPA Analysis Reinforces BCFPD's Fire Sprinkler Advocacy Efforts
Automatic sprinkler systems reduce the risk of home fire death by 80%, and can decrease fire-related property damage by up to 70%, according to an analysis conducted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District (BCFPD) officials view the report as validation of their longstanding support for fire sprinklers.
Using data compiled over a three-year period, the NFPA report demonstrates that fire damage in homes protected by fire sprinklers averaged $5,000, compared to $16,000 for properties without sprinklers.
“Sprinklers are carefully designed to confine a fire to the room or area of origin,” BCFPD Deputy Chief John Feit explains. “They are extremely effective in reducing property losses and, most importantly, saving lives.”
Costs to install fire sprinkler systems in new construction have continued to drop, thanks to advances in materials and industry innovations. In 2006, hardware costs averaged between $2 and $6 per square foot – about the cost of new carpeting.
The BCFPD is a recognized leader in its advocacy of fire sprinkler systems. Fire District trustees passed an ordinance requiring installation of automatic sprinkler systems in all new residential construction in 1997. The ordinance covers all areas of unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry Counties served by the BCFPD.
The District was recognized for its progressive fire sprinkler codes earlier this year at an awards ceremony held during the 2009 Fire Team USA Residential Fire Sprinkler Summit in Addison, IL.
Two of the four communities that rely on the District for fire protection – Lake Barrington and Inverness – have also passed similar sprinkler ordinances. BCFPD officials have made repeated attempts to convince leaders of Barrington Hills and South Barrington to adopt sprinkler system ordinances, but those efforts have not met with success.
For more information on the benefits of fire sprinklers, contact the BCFPD at 847/304-3600.