What is the New Fire Sprinklers Campaign?
Studies conducted by the NFCC show that fire sprinklers when activated, reduce injuries by at least 80%, reduce property damage by 90% and reduce environmental damage substantially. And yet, they are still not a legal requirement in buildings across the UK.
However, the National Fire Chiefs Council are wanting to change this and is actively promoting and advocating fire sprinklers being retrofitted in old and new buildings. Find out more below.
Think Sprinkler Campaign
Between the 16th and 22nd of May, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) created a campaign titled “Think Sprinkler”, to coincide in tandem with the Fire Sprinkler 2022 conference.
The objectives of the Think Sprinkler campaign included spreading awareness of fire sprinkler facts; promoting their importance in various types of buildings, including where there are vulnerable people; and supporting fire and rescue services in local communities.
Most recently, the families of two women who died in a care home in 2017 have shown their support to the NCCC campaign; urging for the government to make fire sprinklers a legal requirement in care homes. Currently, there are no building regulations for mandatory sprinkler systems, even though they are the most efficient fire prevention method there is. Find out about what the biggest causes of residential fires here on our previous blog.
Newgrange Care Home – 2017
On April 8 2017, Daphne Holloway, aged 88, and Ivy Spriggs, aged 91, tragically lost their lives after an unintentional fire broke out through the care home in Hertfordshire. Claire Miles and Carole Murray (the daughters of the two women) joined the Think Sprinkler campaign, advocating their support.
While the Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service rescued 33 people, Daphne and Ivy died in their beds as rescuers were unable to reach them.
The NFCC wants all care homes in the UK to have fire sprinklers be a mandatory requirement. They would help protect people and the building itself now and for future generations. By retrofitting automatic fire sprinklers in care facilities, there are protection systems in place for those more vulnerable. Many more people may become dependent on care as the population grows and ages. So, we need to focus on how best to protect them.
Why Should Automatic Fire Sprinklers Be Installed in Care Homes?
Over the years, RAD Fire Sprinklers has designed and installed automatic fire sprinklers in buildings such as care homes. We recognise that the elderly are more vulnerable than others in certain situations. For example, in the case of an emergency where evacuation is necessary, the elderly or disabled residents may need more time and support.
With a sprinkler system, the head that is closest to the flames will deal with the blaze automatically and quickly; suppressing the fire from spreading. During this time, the residents have plenty of time to exit or await assistance to evacuate.
Though fire alarms are also a system in the fire protection industry, fire sprinklers are a great alternative. This is because, although fire alarms do alert residents to a potential emergency, they are not a prevention method; meaning the flames could easily spread. In addition, those who are hard of hearing or deaf will not be able to hear the alarm and therefore, not be aware of potential risk. Quick response sprinklers, however, will be able to suppress the flames whilst carers assist with these vulnerable residents.
RAD Fire Sprinklers
Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we promote and install fire sprinklers in buildings across the UK, including care homes and high-rise buildings. We understand the benefits of a sprinkler system, both general and sustainable; as these fire protection systems continue to prevent damage and save lives.
To find out more, or to receive a quote, why not fill in our online form? A member of our team will shortly be in touch to see how we can help you. Or, give us a call on 01892 680 090 and speak to us today.
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