Recent Headline Sparks Response from Arizona Chapter National Fire Sprinkler Association
PHOENIX, April 20, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Local media outlets are always on the lookout for a way to share news with the community, but a recent headline in Phoenix should have portrayed the positive outcome of minimal fire damage and the fact no one was hurt, including firefighters instead of its water damage choice.
"The National Fire Sprinkler Association is proud to represent our members who are in the life safety business," explains Bruce Lecair, NFSA Southwest Regional Manager. "We must stop to consider what the headline would be without fire sprinklers in these cases. It is unfair to describe the North Phoenix apartment fire on Saturday with a headline about water damage and six people displaced. A quick Internet search of 'Arizona apartment fires' will let you see what happens without fire sprinklers stopping the fire and it's not a good outcome."
Modern building and fire codes require fire sprinklers in apartment complexes for a reason. It is the minimal protection for fire and life safety because of the number of lives impacted and the amount of property that would be lost, as we have a vast amount of data proving such.
Education is key as community leaders develop a plan for their community that includes fire sprinklers. Key stakeholders can identify their community's vulnerabilities, and can identify unique solutions that promote life safety and quality of life. The fire chief must lead this community team, which also includes the public policy maker, building official, fire marshal, and water purveyor. The NFSA Arizona Chapter hopes to work with community stakeholders, including local media to educate regarding fire sprinklers and how they work in upcoming months.
"We believe we should all be able to partner together for more positive outcomes with fire sprinklers leading the way," adds Fred Graves, Arizona NFSA Chapter President.
The lifesaving technology of fire sprinklers has been effective in commercial buildings for over 100 years, and available in residential occupancies for over 30. Resources about fire sprinklers are available at www.nfsa.org. Visit the website to learn more about how fire sprinklers protect citizens and firefighters.
SOURCE National Fire Sprinkler Association
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