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January 2003

Update on Seton Hall University Fire
JAN 20, 2003—Three years after a residence hall fire at Seton Hall University took the lives of three students, experts say New Jersey remains the only state to require both private and public colleges to install sprinkler systems in on- and off-campus housing. Since the Jan. 19, 2000, blaze that swept through the third floor of a Seton Hall dormitory, 38 other U.S. college students have died in fires.
Campus Fire-Watch, which compiles university-related fire statistics, said all but three of those fatalities occurred in privately owned off-campus housing or school-sanctioned fraternities. Safety officials fear that only more student deaths will prompt lawmakers nationwide to pass legislation requiring sprinklers in residence halls and off-campus fraternities and sororities.
Besides New Jersey, experts say only Pennsylvania has taken significant action on campus fire safety. In Pennsylvania, sprinklers must be installed in on-campus residence halls at public colleges and universities by 2006. The state also allocated low interest loans for private schools to voluntarily install sprinklers.
For more information visit Campus Fire-Watch's website.

AFSA Seminars Presented at Carolina's AFSA 2003 Convention & Exhibition April 23-27, 2003
JAN 14, 2003—The South Carolina Fire Sprinkler Association and the Carolinas Chapter of AFSA are teaming up for a convention & exhibition in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Two AFSA seminars will be presented by Russ Leavitt: 2002 Edition of NFPA 25 on April 23; and 2002 Edition of NFPA 13 on April 24. You can sign up for all of the convention activities, or opt to simply go to the training seminars. Prices for the seminars start at $35.00.

AFSA Seminars in Charlotte, NC February 10-14, 2003
JAN 14, 2003—The Charlotte Fire Department and the Carolinas Chapter of AFSA are pleased to provide a 5-day seminar series at the Charlotte Fire Department Training Division, February 10-14, 2003. Topics to be covered include: Project Management, 2 days of NFPA 13 (2002 edition), Plan Review, and the 2002 edition of NFPA 25. Prices start at just $35.00 per day! Contact Leslie Joplin to receive a registration form.

Fire Damages Church but Sprinkler System Averts Disaster
JAN 2, 2003—On December 28, 2002, Montgomery County firefighters responded to St. Paul's Catholic Church in Damascus, Md. about 5:30 p.m. and quickly extinguished a fire that the sprinkler system had kept in check. The fire occurred during the five o'clock Mass on Saturday evening. When the fire alarm system went off, no one was aware that part of the church was actually on fire. In addition to averting disaster, the sprinkler system limited the damage so effectively that the church was open for Mass the following day. The church has only been open for 6 months. During the Mass on Sunday, the priest explained the incident to the parish and praised the performance of the sprinkler system. Officials did not say what caused the fire but said it was thought to be accidental. Damage was estimated at $1,500, including robes and books.

AFSA Presents Virtual Seminar on The Variables that Affect Water Transit Time in Dry Pipe Systems
JAN. 2, 2003—AFSA proudly presents its 90-minute virtual seminar, The Variables that Affect Water Transit Time in Dry Pipe Systems on January 30 at 1:00 PM Eastern Time. Historically, there have not been readily available methods for predicting the time required to deliver water to the test connection of a dry sprinkler system. Methods exist for calculating the trip time of a dry pipe valve, but the variables such as air and water supply pressures, system capacity and piping configuration, orifice size of test sprinkler, and the design of the Dry Pipe Valve and quick opening device make determining when water will actually reach the test connection very challenging. NFPA 13 has recently been revised to allow an alternative to a 60 second field water delivery test in systems over 750 gallons (2839 L). Using laboratory recognized calculation programs; installers can now predict when water will reach a specified automatic sprinkler. The speaker, James Golinveaux, Vice President of Tyco Fire Products Group will look at criteria found in NFPA 13 for dry pipe system size and the requirements for quick opening devices. He will discuss why NFPA 13 has changed and how the criteria now found in NFPA 13 was developed, how these new calculation programs are changing the way we look at dry pipe systems, how an installing contractor can use this new technology to eliminate the requirement for meeting a 60 second field water delivery test at an inspector's test connection. Intended for anyone involved with designing or installing sprinklers. This seminar will benefit AHJs, contractors, building owners or representatives, insurance representatives, architects and engineers. Earn 0.15 CEUs. NICET considers this an acceptable form of delivery. If applicable to your level of certification, this seminar should constitute 1.5 CPDs.

February 2003

State Officials Urge New Rules Requiring Sprinklers for Nursing Homes
FEB 27/2003—According to a report by The Associated Press, state officials today called for regulations mandating the immediate installation of sprinklers in all Connecticut nursing homes, saying such a rule might have prevented the deaths of 10 disabled and frail people in a fire at the Greenwood Health Center Wednesday.
Most of the building did not have sprinklers, fire officials said. The nursing home, built in 1969, was not required to have a sprinkler system. A room housing oxygen tanks was the only one with sprinklers.
Fire Marshal William Abbott said the building was up to code and fire extinguishers were present.
Wendy Furniss, director of the state Department of Public Health's division of health systems regulation, said an inspection completed Feb. 7 found no fire or patient care violations. Several state officials, including the chief state's attorney and the chairman of the state panel that licenses sprinkler installers, also said they were astounded to learn after the fire that the Greenwood home had not been required to install sprinklers.
Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said that within a week he would present lawmakers with proposals not only requiring sprinklers in every facility that houses people unable to quickly exit in an emergency, but also to significantly toughen penalties for the owners of facilities who ignore the regulations.
Chief State's Attorney Christopher L Morano said it is "hard to believe" sprinklers are not required in certain nursing homes. "It amazes me that we don't have sprinklers in certain types of premises,'' he said, adding that his concern dates from his days as a Housing Court prosecutor and that he soon would be talking to fire marshals and lawmakers about it. Asked to comment on the absence of sprinklers at the Greenwood facility, David Waskowicz of Meriden, the acting chairman of the state's Fire Protection Sprinkler System Board, said he "couldn't see how they got away with it. "Sprinklers save lives, and there has never been a multiple life loss in a fully-sprinklered building," he said. "I was quite surprised when I first heard of the fire, I thought there might have been a system failure. So I was surprised when I later found out there was no system."

NFPA Calls for Immediate Meeting of Code Writers to Address Concerns
Chicago and Rhode Island nightclub tragedies raise significant code and enforcement questions
FEB 27/2003—The nonprofit NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) called upon its Technical Committee on Assembly Occupancies to convene in Quincy, MA for an immediate review of the safety issues relevant in public assembly buildings. The meeting of the 30-person committee will be held as soon as possible. At issue are several core components of a total system of building safety that have come to light following two deadly nightclub incidents. The first was in Chicago, in which 21 patrons were killed in a crowd crush on February 17th. The second incident occurred on February 20th when a fast-spreading fire in a West Warwick, RI nightclub killed 97 occupants. See the NFPA website for more information.

Pyrotechnics Also Blamed for Recent Fire in Minneapolis Club
FEB 27/2003—According to an article released by The Associated Press, about 120 people escaped unharmed February 17 after a band's pyrotechnic display apparently set the ceiling on fire at a Minneapolis club. The Jet City Fix was playing its encore at the Fine Line Music Cafe when it set off the display that started the fire about 7:15 p.m., fire officials said. The crowd was moved quickly out of the building and the fire extinguished within 15 minutes. The fire was contained to the Fine Line, but the club sustained extensive water damage. Members of The Jet City Fix never told club owner Dario Anselmo that they would be shooting anything off during their set, Anselmo said, according to a report on startribune.com, the Web site for the Star Tribune of Minneapolis. According to the report, the sprinkler system activated and all the patrons were out of the club before the fire department arrived.

Sprinkler Douses Fire at Gas Station in Minnesota
FEB 27/2003—Thanks to the quick-dousing action of a sprinkler head in the back office at the Go Gas-n-Wash in Spring Lake Park, Minn., business is proceeding as usual. The fire department was alerted to the fire at 10 p.m. Feb. 16. On arrival, the gas station, which had closed for business at 9 p.m. that night, was vacant. According to Jeremiah Anderson, fire investigator for the local fire department "Firefighters found water coming from under the front doors of the station. (They) checked the building exterior and found no further problem." Firefighters entered the building and discovered that there had been a fire in the back office. The fire had been extinguished by the action of a single sprinkler head.
"Due to the sprinkler extinguishing the fire, no major damage was reported," Anderson said. Anderson said when the Go Gas-n-Wash was being remodeled recently, there was some debate about whether to install a sprinkler system. "I'm glad it was put in in this case," Anderson said. "There probably would have been a lot higher damage, possibly entire building loss if not for that sprinkler. A sprinkler system, such as the one placed in Go Gas-n-Wash gas station, provides inexpensive 24-hour protection."

Sprinklers Save Courthouse
FEB 24/2003—The Sacramento, Calif. County courthouse was spared this weekend, thanks to the activation of a fire sprinkler system. A fire inside the records section of the courthouse "would have been much worse if sprinklers had not automatically activated," a fire department official stated.
The fire started in a cubicle inside the first floor records department. Investigators think it could have started in an electrical outlet inside the cubicle. A stack of computer paper was piled next to the outlet. The fire activated two sprinkler heads above the cubicle. Arriving firefighters found the fire by listening for the sound of the sprinklers and heading in that direction. The fire damage was largely contained to the single cubicle.

Sprinklers Not Required in Rhode Island Nightclub
FEB 21/2003—West Warwick, R.I.—Ninety seven bodies have been recovered after a fire engulfed a Rhode Island nightclub during a rock concert's fireworks display. Officials said 187 people were injured, some critically, as concertgoers frantically rushed to escape the raging fire and thick smoke. The tragedy came four days after 21 people were killed during a stampede in a Chicago nightclub.
Fire Chief Charles Hall told NBC's "Today" show that the club had recently passed a fire inspection, but did not have a permit for fireworks. The one-story, wood building, which was at least 60 years old, was not required to have a sprinkler system because of its small size. The entire club was consumed by flames within three minutes, said Hall.
Giant sparklers on stage shot up and ignited soundproofing foam on a wall and the ceiling. The fire quickly spread over the crowd, filling the building with thick, black smoke. Unlike the Chicago stampede, where overcrowding and blocked exits contributed to the tragedy, Hall said the Rhode Island club did not appear to be overcrowded or have blocked exits. Most of the bodies were found near the front exit, some of them burned and others dead from smoke inhalation, Hall said. Some appeared to have been trampled in the rush to escape.
"They tried to go out the same way they came in. That was the problem," Hall said. "They didn't use the other three fire exits."
A TV news crew inside the club doing a follow-up story to the Chicago fire filmed part of the tragedy before escaping. It was the second deadly U.S. club disaster in four days. Early, Sunday, 21 people were killed and more than 50 injured during a stampede in a Chicago nightclub that began when a security guard used pepper spray to break up a fight.

AFSA Seminars Offered in Las Vegas, Nevada April 8-11, 2003
FEB 7/2003—The Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council and the American Fire Sprinkler Association are proud to provide 4 days of seminars at the annual EDU-CODE training event.
April 8-10 - NFPA 13 Updates (from '99 ed. to '02 ed.)
April 11, AM Session - NFPA 20 ('99 ed.)
April 12, PM Session - NFPA 25 ('02 ed.)
Please go to the Edu-Code website to register and for more information.

Sprinklers Stop Fire Damage At Shopping Mall
FEB 6/2003—WILKES-BARRE, PA—A Luzerne County shopping mall is open for business once again thanks to good fire sprinkler and alarm systems. Firefighters in and around the Hazleton Area responded to a fire at the Laurel Mall in Hazle Township just after 7 a.m., Jan 22, 2003. They found flames in an inventory storage room for a skate shop on the north side of the mall. Some burning clothes set off the sprinkler system and triggered a smoke alarm. Lt. Matt Marsicano of the Hazle Twp. Vol. Fire Dept, "The engine crew got here quick and got a good hit on the fire from the get-go. That, and the sprinkler system really helped us out... it didn't have much of a chance... the sprinklers contained a lot." Fire crews vented all the smoke from the building and the Laurel Mall was able to open around ten after ten... just ten-minutes late. <See WBRE for more info>

March 2003

Massachusetts Committee Okays Mandatory Sprinklers and Fireworks Ban
MAR 31/2003 — The Public Safety Committee has okayed a bill requiring all nightclubs and dance halls, regardless of size, and all commercial buildings with an area of more than 7,500 square feet, to install sprinkler systems. The proposal also bans the use of fireworks at most indoor entertainment venues. Approval of the proposal came following a hearing at which some of the families of victims of the Rhode Island nightclub fire tearfully testified.

9/11 Survivor Speaks In Rochester
MAR 31/2003 — A survivor of the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon spoke in Rochester, NY Friday night. Lieutenant Colonel Brian Birdwell's second-floor office in the Pentagon was 20 yards from the spot where Flight 77 slammed into the building engulfing the area into a fireball.
Birdwell said his clothes and body caught fire, but he collapsed under a sprinkler, which doused the flames. "It's an absolute miracle I'm standing here today," Birdwell told a crowd of about 500 at the Rochester Youth for Christ's annual banquet. Earlier in the day, he also visited the Burn Unit at the Golisano Children's Hospital at Strong Memorial Hospital.

UL Announces New Director of Business Development, Fire Protection Division
MAR 27/2003 — Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) announces the appointment of Dr. Hsiang-Cheng "H.C." Kung as its director of Business Development, Fire Protection Division. Kung's responsibilities in this newly developed position will focus on creating new product test protocols, securing research grants and developing business in the United States and Asia. Kung comes to UL after serving more than 34 years with Factory Mutual Research Corporation in Norwood, Mass.

Fire Safety Bills Progress in Connecticut
MAR 20/2003 — Several bills designed to prevent fires like those that killed 16 people at a Hartford nursing home and 99 people at a Rhode Island nightclub advanced Thursday in the Connecticut state legislature.
The Public Safety Committee approved bills that would require sprinkler systems in nursing homes and strengthen penalties for people who illegally use pyrotechnics in nightclubs. The nursing home measure would require all nursing and convalescent homes to have sprinkler systems by 2005. Current law requires only buildings constructed after 1987 to have sprinkler systems.

Seminar Series Planned for Georgia
MAR 17/2003—The Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association & AFSA proudly present a week-long seminar series in Norcross, GA, April 7-11, 2003. Topics to be covered include NFPA 13 (2002 edition), Plan Review, & NFPA 25 (2002 edition). For more information, email Leslie Joplin or call (214) 349-5965, ext. 130.

Pasadena Texas Adopts NFPA Building Construction and Safety Code
MAR 17/2003—The city of Pasadena, TX voted on March 4 to adopt NFPA 5000™, Building Construction and Safety Code™. NFPA 5000 is the first building code to be developed through a process accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and is a key element of the Comprehensive Consensus Codes™ (C3), the first full, integrated set of codes and standards developed through ANSI-accredited processes. NFPA 5000 meets ISO criteria for its Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule, making Pasadena and all jurisdictions that adopt it eligible for the maximum points available. ISO evaluates building code and enforcement efforts locally for insurers to assist them in their underwriting and rating of individual properties. In addition to NFPA 5000, Pasadena enforces several other key C3 codes, including NFPA 70, National Electrical Code®, the Uniform Plumbing Code™ and the Uniform Mechanical Code™. The C3 set is being developed through a partnership involving NFPA, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA), and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

NFPA Committee Proposes Sprinkler Requirements in Nightclubs and Entertainment Facilities
MAR 14/2003—A special committee meeting of NFPA's Technical Committee on Assembly Occupancies convened Thursday, March 13th, in Boston, Massachusetts for a day-long meeting to review safety issues related to recent fatalities in nightclubs. Responding to the tragic nightclub fire in Rhode Island that claimed 99 lives, the committee voted to proceed with a Technical Interim Amendment (TIA) that will require automatic fire sprinklers in all nightclubs and entertainment facilities that accommodate more than 300 people. Additional TIAs are expected to be urged by other fire service organizations that would require additional assemblies and occupancies to be equipped with automatic fire sprinklers. Representing AFSA at the public comment portion of the committee meeting was Roland Huggins, P.E., AFSA's Vice President of Engineering and Technical Services.

Mass. Governor and Real Estate Group Back Sprinkler Bill
MAR 14/2003—In a stunning reversal from their previous position, a key real estate group in Massachusetts has endorsed proposal to require sprinkler installations as a part of any expansion or renovation of a commercial building over 7,500 square feet. Massachusetts Governor Romney has also endorsed the proposal which is on a legislative fast track. The bill was unanimously approved by the Joint Committee on Public Safety on March 13.

College Fire Prevention Act Introduced by Senator Edwards
MAR 14/2003—Senator John Edwards on Thursday introduced legislation to help put sprinklers in student dormitories and in fraternity and sorority houses. "It's just common sense that we should try to help prevent the needless loss of young lives," Senator Edwards said. "Parents should not have to worry about their children living in fire traps." The legislation was cosponsored by Senators Carl Levin of Michigan and Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey. A fire three years ago in a dorm at Seton Hall University in New Jersey killed three freshmen and injured 54 other students. Boland Hall, the six-story dorm that housed some 600 students, was built in 1952, long before sprinklers were required in student housing.
The legislation would authorize the Education Department to make grants of $80 million in each of the next five years to public and private colleges and universities to install sprinkler systems in student housing. Higher education institutions would have to provide matching funds to qualify for the competitive grants under the measure. In North Carolina alone, it would cost an estimated $57.5 million to install sprinklers in public university dorms.

AFSA Sponsored Satellite Media Tour a "Hit"
MAR 13/2003—Television stations from almost twenty cities from coast-to-coast participated in an AFSA-sponsored satellite media tour featuring fire sprinkler advocate Dennis Compton, formerly fire chief of Mesa, Arizona. Compton responded to numerous questions from reporters, stressing the importance of automatic fire sprinklers in saving lives and property. While the size of the audience will not be available for several days, it was clear that the presentation was considered an important message about public safety.

Congressmen Call for Sprinkler Task Force
MAR 13/2002—Congressmen Curt Weldon (PA) and James Langevin (RI) appeared at a press conference in Washington DC today to announce the formation of a task force to study and recommend legislation to offer tax incentives for retrofitting automatic fire sprinklers. Representing AFSA at the press conference was Larry Thibodeau, AFSA Treasurer and Chairman of the AFSA Legislative Committee. AFSA will participate on the task force.

Massachusetts Considers Sprinkler Law
MAR 13/2003—Massachusetts legislators today promised to 'fast track' legislation to require fire sprinklers in all nightclubs and dance halls in the state. The proposed law would apply to new construction and require retrofitting of older establishments. The Public Safety Commission has indicated that it also intends to push for legislation that would require sprinklers in almost all commercial buildings in the state. The legislation is expected to generate fierce opposition from real estate interests and nightclub owners.

Florida Legislative Committee Votes to Roll Back Progress in Residential Life Safety
MAR 13/2003—The Florida House Judiciary Committee has voted to transfer the right to determine fire safety in high-rise condominiums from government code officials to the condominium association by reporting HB 165 out of committee.  HB 165 sponsor Rep. Connie Mack will likely file to have the bill withdrawn from other committees and be sent to the floor for a vote.  The committee was apparently mislead by grossly inaccurate costs of sprinkler systems, some estimates as high as $30,000 per condo unit.

Major Media Markets to Participate in AFSA-Sponsored Satellite Media Tour
MAR 12/2003—AFSA is sponsoring a Satellite Media Tour (SMT) on Thursday, March 13th. A satellite media tour is a series of interviews with TV network affiliates around the country. The SMT allows local TV and radio stations across the country the opportunity to interview a widely known and respected expert who can address important public safety issues and talk about the importance of fire sprinklers. Featured on the AFSA media tour will be well-known fire expert Dennis Compton, formerly Fire
Chief in Mesa, Arizona and a vocal proponent of automatic fire sprinklers. Compton will deliver a message that fire sprinklers save lives, will debunk stubborn myths about fire sprinklers, and will help viewers sort out fact from fiction. In addition, he will talk about what everyone can do to increase the chance of surviving a fire in a public building, and how automatic fire sprinklers provide important protection.
A very impressive list of media markets has signed up to participate in the Satellite Media Tour. Included are:

(The numbers in "()" is the market ranking on a national basis....in other words NEW YORK/WESTCHESTER (1) means New York is the biggest market in the nation. You will note that we have three of the top ten media markets in the country.)
If you are in an area covered by one of the stations listed above, you will want to watch the news during that day to see if the story is aired. One caveat-we know that the stations above have signed up to conduct the interviews, but we cannot guarantee the interview will air, or guarantee when it will air. Sometimes local news items preempt such interviews.

Weldon, Langevin Expected to Endorse Tax Credit Legislation at Capital Hill Press Conference
MAR 12/2003—On Thursday, March 13th, U. S. Representatives Weldon and Langevin will hold a press conference in Washington DC to discuss federal legislation for fire protection -- and fire sprinklers will be a featured topic. They are expected to announce support for a tax credit for installations of automatic fire sprinklers, an idea currently being pushed by AFSA and a coalition of other organizations. Larry Thibodeau, AFSA Treasurer and Chair of the Legislative Committee, will represent AFSA at the press conference.

NFPA Committee Convenes Rare Special Meeting
MAR 12/2003—A special committee meeting of NFPA's Technical Committee on Assembly Occupancies will convene in Quincy, MA on Thursday to review safety issues relevant in public assembly buildings that have come to light following two deadly nightclub incidents. AFSA expects much of this meeting will focus on sprinklers. AFSA will be represented by Roland Huggins, P.E., AFSA Vice President for Engineering and Technical Services.

Massachusetts Legislative Committees to Discuss Sprinkler Legislation
MAR 12/2003—The Massachusetts legislature will be discussing several sprinkler bills on Thursday -- one requiring changes to require smaller assemblies to meet current codes that require sprinklers, and another to move the requirement for sprinklers from 12,000 sq ft down to 7,500
sq. ft. The Massachusetts Fire Chiefs are solidly behind this legislation and AFSA will help them any way we can.

Florida Legislator Moves to Roll Back Progress in Residential Life Safety
MAR 12/2003—Representative Connie Mack (R-Ft Lauderdale) has taken an active role to reduce rather than enhance life safety provisions for condominium dwellers in the state. Mack is fighting for passage of House Bill 165, which would allow condominiums to opt-out of government-mandated fire sprinkler installation with a two-thirds vote of owners in the condominium. Mack vowed to continue the fight, calling the life safety retrofit legislation “an overbearing government mandate … destroying people’s lives, costing millions of dollars, and forcing people to sell their homes” and “…nothing more than a massive tax increase on condo owners.” AFSA President Steve Muncy offers a different perspective. "Events of the past few weeks have demonstrated the importance of fire sprinklers in saving lives. Approximately 80 percent of fire deaths in the United State occur in homes. Due to fact that apartments and condominiums pack more people into smaller area, they present a higher risk of fire," Muncy says. "I hope it doesn't take a multiple-fatality fire in a Florida condominium complex to teach the importance of fire sprinklers, and misleading and inaccurate rhetoric about cost certainly do nothing to promote the life-saving advantages of fire sprinklers."
Representatives of the Florida fire protection industry have provided information about the value of residential fire sprinkler systems to Florida’s Committee on Judiciary on House Bill 165, which is continuing to review the bill.
Individuals who would like to share their ideas and suggestions with Representative Mack can call 954-958-5569.

Pulte Homes (Florida) Refuses to Allow Home-Buyer to Install Fire Sprinklers
MAR 12/2003—Florida Home-buyer Tom Terry ran into a brick wall with Pulte Homes when he decided to install a residential sprinkler system in his new home--Pulte Homes simply would not allow it and indicated he could retrofit the home after he took possession. You can read the sad tale in a letter (pdf file) written from Terry to Pulte Homes describing the frustration of a new home buyer who wants the life-saving protection provided by automatic fire sprinklers.

60 Minutes II Emphasizes Value of Fire Sprinklers
MAR 06/2003—The opening Segment of the March 5, 2003, CBS program 60 Minutes II, provided a powerful argument for requiring automatic fire sprinklers in all public buildings, regardless of the size. Showing disturbing scenes from the nightclub fire in West Warwick, R.I., where 98 people lost their lives and 30 more were critically burned in an unsprinklered building, and interviews with survivors, Reporter Scott Pelley noted that most if not all of those lives would have been saved if the building had been sprinklered. He emphasized the point by showing news footage from a night club fire in Minneapolis that occurred only three days before the one in Rhode Island. The circumstances were incredibly similar: while 150 people in the club watched, pyrotechnics on stage ignited the ceiling. But no one was hurt because the club had fire sprinklers.
Pelley quoted statistics from the National Fire Protection Association proving the effectiveness of fire sprinklers. He interviewed NFPA President Jim Shannon, who noted that NFPA is a strong advocate of fire sprinklers, even though the codes do not require them in all occupancies. Pelley also interviewed Stanley Chesley, a lawyer who has represented victims of such fires as the 1977 Beverly Hills Supper Club in Kentucky and the 1980 MGM Grand Fire in Las Vegas. Pelley stated: "In three minutes 4000 years of life expectancy of wonderful young people were extinguished ... because of a lack of care by our society to do something. He added that fire sprinklers are a proven technology that has been available and cheap for over 100 years.
Miami Beach (FL) Fire Chief Floyd Jordan told Pelley that he believes there would have been little, and probably no loss of life in the Rhode Island fire if the building had been sprinklered. Chief Jordan also said he believes the majority of fire chiefs in the country would agree that it is time to change the building codes to require fire sprinklers in more buildings.
You can view a transcript of the program on www.cbsnews.com

Chapel Hill, N.C. Considers Nightclub Sprinklers
MAR 05/2003—Last night the Chapel Hill, N.C. Town Council voted to explore the possibility of requiring bars and nightclubs to install fire sprinkler systems. Fire Chief Dan Jones gave a report demonstrating the hazards associated with businesses that serve alcoholic beverages while having 50 or more people in the facility. The proposal would require those businesses to install fire sprinklers before receiving their certificates of occupancy. All businesses would have to install the systems within five years or have their certificates revoked.
Local bar and club owners are reacting negatively to the proposal, stating the fire was "not due to the fact that they did not have sprinklers." The council is investigating the requirement and its economic consequences on local businesses. It plans to garner public input on the matter during a hearing scheduled for March 24.
AFSA members in the area are encouraged to speak with the local media about the benefits of automatic sprinkler systems. AFSA offers statistics and other information that members of the fire protection community can use in their public relations effort. For general information about sprinklers, click here. For video materials call AFSA at 214-349-5965 x115.

Tacoma, Seattle Proposes New Safety Measures for Nightclubs
MAR 05/2003—The Tacoma, Seattle City Council is considering recommendations made for new fire prevention measures in local nightclubs. Some of the new measures proposed include employee safety classes, more daytime and nighttime inspections, mandatory fire sprinklers in all new and existing clubs, and mandatory fire alarm monitoring. The Tacoma Fire Department held a series of undercover inspections over the last week and found several violations of the city's fire code.
If the city requires automatic fire sprinkler systems, they will have to be installed within eight years or at the building's next sale or major remodel, whichever comes first. The fire department would also like to have all clubs' fire alarms monitored directly by the fire department. Several nightclub owners stated they are open to new safety measures.

AFSA To Sponsor Satellite Media Tour
MAR 04/2003—In an effort to increase public awareness about the important role fire sprinklers play in protecting lives and property, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) will sponsor a Satellite Media Tour (SMT) on Thursday, March 13th. A satellite media tour is a series of interviews with TV network affiliates around the country. The SMT allows local TV and radio stations across the country the opportunity to interview a widely known and respected expert who can address important public safety issues and talk about the importance of fire sprinklers.
Featured on the AFSA satellite media tour will be well-known fire expert Dennis Compton, formerly Fire Chief in Mesa, Arizona, and recipient of numerous fire service awards including the Fire Service Person of the Year from the AFSA, and a vocal proponent of automatic fire sprinkler protection. During the interviews, Compton will deliver a message that fire sprinklers save lives, pointing out that fire kills more people in the U.S. annually than all natural disasters combined. Compton will also debunk stubborn myths about fire sprinklers, and help viewers sort out fact from fiction. In addition, he will talk about what everyone can do to increase the chance of surviving a fire in a public building, and how automatic fire sprinklers provide important protection. This effort can spread the message to millions of Americans when the interviews are shown on local news outlets.
(note: participation in the satellite media tour is limited to the news media and is not accessible to the general public.)

North Carolina Fire Chief Supports Sprinkler Legislation for Places of Public Assembly
MAR 04/2003—In a memo to city officials, Chapel Hill, North Carolina Fire Chief Dan Jones has said, "In response to your question of what could be done legislatively to help prevent a fire related tragedy in our clubs, bars and other places of assembly like the recent incident in Rhode Island, I can only suggest one truly effective solution. That solution would be to require bars, clubs and other similar places of public assembly that have gatherings of more than 50 people and sell alcoholic beverages to install and maintain fire sprinkler systems." Jones goes on to say, "The life saving record of fire sprinkler systems is without peer. There has never been a multiple-loss-of-life fire in a fully and properly operating sprinklered building. We have experienced the effectiveness of these systems in Chapel Hill. Since the Council enacted a retroactive fire sprinkler requirement in University Greek housing in 1996 we have had several small fires that were easily controlled by the operating sprinkler systems and no major fires." There will be a public hearing in Chapel Hill on March 24th to consider a requirement for sprinklers in bars and clubs.

NFPA Establishes Web Page Related to Nursing Home Fires
MAR 03/2003—NFPA has established a web page to address issues related to nursing home fires, including investigative report. View this page at: http://www.nfpa.org/Research/FireInvestigation/CTFire/CTFire.asp

Rhode Island Nightclub Fire
MAR 03/2003—The February 20th fire at a nightclub in Rhode Island ranks as one of the deadliest in U.S. history. NFPA provides extensive information about fires in assembly occupancies at: http://www.nfpa.org/Research/FireInvestigation/RIslandFire/RIFire.asp

April 2003

CPSC Recalls Star ME-1 Dry Sprinklers
APR 29/2003 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Household Inc. (AHI), formerly known as Sunbeam Corporation, of Boca Raton, Fla., announced the nationwide recall of about 60,000 Star ME-1 dry fire sprinklers, manufactured from 1977 through 1982 by Chemetron Corp., an inactive subsidiary of AHI. The Star ME-1 dry fire sprinkler was also included in a voluntary recall, in cooperation with CPSC, by the Mealane Corp., which manufactured the dry sprinkler model from 1961 through 1976.
There have been no reports of any sprinklers specified in this recall failing while in use, but CPSC reports that samples of Star ME-1 sprinklers removed from several locations and tested by independent testing laboratories did not operate as intended.
Although Sunbeam Corporation filed for bankruptcy protection in February 2001, AHI has agreed to pay up to $1 million to assist in the replacement of the Star ME-1 dry sprinklers that Chemetron manufactured from 1977 through 1982.
For more information, go to the Recall Page | Other Recalls

Chief Dennis Compton Receives CFSI Award
APR 28/2003 — Retired Mesa, Ariz. Fire Chief Dennis Compton was recently selected by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) Board of Directors as the recipient of the 2003 CFSI/Motorola Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. The presentation will take place at the 15th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on April 30, 2003 at the Washington, D.C. Hilton and Towers.
Compton was the recipient of the AFSA Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year Award in 2000 and served as AFSA spokesperson for the March 2003 satellite media tour after the Rhode Island night club fire. Chief Compton serves on the executive board of the International Fire Service Training Association, as a board member of the National Fire Protection Association and immediate past chair of the CFSI National Advisory Committee. Chief Compton retired last year as Mesa, Arizona's Fire Chief. He has served for over 32 years in the fire service. In recognition for his contributions in the state of Arizona, he was selected a charter member of the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame.
Named after the late-J. Mason Lankford, Jr., and sponsored by CFSI and Motorola, Inc., the award recognizes an individual who has been proactive at the local, state or federal government level to raise the level of awareness and support of fire and emergency services, as well as life safety issues.

Virginia Chapter Presents Two Seminars in Richmond, Va.
APR 28/2003 — The Virginia Chapter of AFSA is proud to sponsor a 2-day seminar series at the Henrico County Training Center in Richmond, Virginia. Steven Scandaliato will present NFPA 25 ('98 ed.) on May 19, and NFPA 14 ('00 ed.) on May 20. Fire officials in the State of Virginia can receive up to 16 credit hours toward their Fire Inspector 1031 re-certification by attending these classes. Prices start at just $60! Contact Leslie Joplin to receive more information and request a registration form.

Coalition Releases Paper Supporting Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003 (HR 1824)
APR 21/2003 — The Ad Hoc Coalition supporting adoption of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003 has released a supporting paper entitled "The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003: A Tax Incentive for Life Safety." Included in this paper are reasons why this legislation is important in saving lives and property, and examples showing the dramatic tax incentives to property owners if HR 1824 is enacted into law. Also available is a Summary Sheet listing important points and referencing the supporting paper. The documents may be downloaded in Adobe PDF file format here. The Ad Hoc Coalition consists of the American Fire Sprinkler Association, Campus Firewatch, Congressional Fire Services Institute, International Association of Fire Chiefs, National Fire Protection Association, and the National Fire Sprinkler Association.

HR 1824, Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003 Introduced Into U.S. House of Representatives
APR 17/2003 — Rep. Curt Weldon (R.-PA) and Rep. James Langevin (D.-RI) have introduced important sprinkler tax legislation in the U. S. House of Representatives — a bill that can have the effect of saving lives while making it easier and more affordable to retrofit sprinkler systems. HR 1824 was introduced on April 11, 2003. The bill will amend the 1986 Internal Revenue Code to classify automatic fire sprinkler systems as five year property for the purpose of depreciation. The much shorter period of depreciation will encourage the retrofit of existing depreciable property by offering a quicker "pay back." For instance, a sprinkler system that costs $100,000 can, if this legislation is passed, be depreciated at $20,000 a year for five years as opposed to the current tax treatment that would require over thirty years.
<More Info on HR 1824>

Providence, Rhode Island Committee Bans Pyrotechnics
APR 11/2003 — A legislative committee approved a ban on pyrotechnics in nightclubs April 8, an expansion of safety measures intended to prevent a repeat of the concert fire that killed 99 people. Rep. Norman Landroche, Jr. is a co-sponsor of the bill and was one of the first firefighters to respond to the February 20 fire at The Station nightclub. The bill, passed unanimously by the Corporations Committee, would ban pyrotechnics in places licensed to serve liquor that have a capacity of up to 1,000 people, and would eliminate an exemption that has allowed older venues like The Station to operate without installing sprinklers. Investigators believe The Station fire was sparked by a band's pyrotechnics, and could have been less severe if sprinklers had been installed.

Connecticut Representative Commends Colleagues for Sprinkler Support
APR 04/2003 — Conecticut State Representative Peter Panaroni (D-Branford) has commended his colleagues on the Public Safety Committee for unanimously endorsing legislation to require fire sprinklers in all state nursing homes and require that contractors discuss sprinklers with clients in new home construction projects. "I have been fighting this battle for six-years," Rep. Panaroni said. "This is the first year that the construction industry has been onboard. We are talking about protecting the elderly and our families - it is a no-brainer." The bill now goes to the House floor for consideration.

Connecticut Governor Supports Sprinklers In Nursing Homes
APR 03/2003 — In a letter to leaders of the Connecticut Legislature's Public Safety Committee, Governor Rowland has indicated support for state legislation requiring sprinkler systems in nursing homes and urged swift passage of the legislation. The bill would require each nursing home in Connecticut to have an automatic fire sprinkler system by 2005. The bill has already passed a committee vote and awaits action in the House of Representatives.

Company President Cites Sprinkler Success
APR 03/2003 — In correcting erroneous press accounts about a March fire at this company, the president of Orion Safety Products has issued a statement saying, "We at Orion Orion Safety Products would like to correct a few inaccuracies in the reporting of the fire we experienced March 24. The article notes that the fire caused $200,000 in damage. Current estimates are closer to $10,000," said Jay McLaughlin, Orion's president. "The article notes that '25 firefighters worked for 45 minutes to control the blaze.' In fact, the automatic sprinkler system extinguished the fire within minutes of ignition. When the firefighters arrived, which was extremely quick, the fire was already extinguished though dense smoke was evident throughout the plant."

Iraqi Terrorist Attempt in Jordan Foiled by Sprinklers
APR 02/2003 — Four Iraqi men were detained last week in a bungled plan to set fire to a luxury hotel in Amman, Jordan where many American journalists and some American military personnel are staying. The four, who are believed to be Iraqi intelligence officers, tried to burn down the top-floor executive lounge of the Grand Hyatt Amman Hotel with a primitive incendiary bomb, but the hotel's sprinkler system extinguished the flames.

Sprinkler Effectiveness Demonstrated in Santa Cruz Arson Attacks
APR 02/2003 — Two separate Santa Cruz, California arson attacks – one in a sprinklered building, and one in an unsprinklered facility – demonstrate the effectiveness of fire sprinklers. An arson attack caused more than $400,000 in damage to City Hall, which was painted and carpeted some two years ago — but no sprinkler system was installed. The local Santa Cruz office of the California Parks Department suffered minor damage from another arson attempt a few minutes later. A firebomb in a plastic bottle was placed inside a second-floor niche that houses a vent for the utility closet and water heater. The sprinkler in the closet extinguished the flames quickly. Officials believe the two fires could be related.

May 2003

CPSC, Central Sprinkler Company Update Voluntary Recall To Replace O-Ring Fire Sprinklers
MAY 29/2003 — The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Central Sprinkler Company, an affiliate of Tyco Fire Products LP, of Lansdale, Pa., have announced a modification to the voluntary replacement program announced on July 19, 2001. The company is replacing 35 million Central fire sprinklers that have O-ring seals. The program also includes a limited number of O-ring models sold by Gem Sprinkler Company and Star Sprinkler, Inc. totaling about 167,000 sprinkler heads. Under the original recall program, consumers were required to use Central contractors. Now, after notifying Central in advance and completing certain forms, consumers also can hire their own contractors and be reimbursed for all or some of the labor charges.
Central initiated the voluntary replacement program in 2001 because it discovered the performance of these O-ring sprinklers can degrade over time. These sprinkler heads can corrode or minerals, salts and other contaminants in water can affect the rubber O-ring seals. These factors could cause the sprinkler heads not to activate in a fire. Central is providing newer fire sprinklers that do not use O-ring seals.
Central is providing free of charge replacement sprinkler heads and the labor needed to replace the sprinklers. As before, Central will arrange for the installation by using either its own Central Field Service crews or by contracting with professional sprinkler contractors. Now, consumers can arrange to have the free replacement sprinklers installed themselves rather than waiting for Central to arrange for installation. Subject to certain conditions, including advance notice to Central, verification of the replacements and return of the removed sprinklers, Central will provide either full or partial reimbursement for labor charges.
Building and homeowners should check their fire sprinklers immediately to see if they are part of this voluntary replacement program. For more information on how to identify sprinklers subject to this program and to learn how to participate in this program, call the Notice Packet Request Line at 1-800-871-3492, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or access the program's web site at www.SprinklerReplacement.com.

Sprinklers Save Ethan Allen Plant
MAY 27/2003 — According to The Caledonian-Record in St. Johnsbury, Vt., an Orleans, Vt. Ethan Allen furniture plant was spared May 20, thanks to an automatic sprinkler system. The system and fire crews from around the county had the fire under control quickly. The cause of the blaze was an outside dust collection unit that exploded. Fire officials noted the fire could have been much worse as the fire broke out next to the lacquer plant. No one was injured and the facility was back in business the next morning.

City Council in Galt, Calif. Votes on Residential Sprinkler Ordinance
MAY 27/2003 — According to the Lodi News-Sentinel, the Galt, Calif. city council has voted to give home buyers the decision on whether to install residential sprinklers. The council voted 4-1 to require develops to demonstrate fire sprinklers in at least one of their model homes in future subdivisions. The ordinance will be proposed for final adoption June 3. The ordinance also requires developers to provide educational literature and show home buyers a video about residential sprinklers. People who decline to purchase the sprinklers must sign a form acknowledging their decision not to install them. The council did agree to mandate sprinklers for all tri- and four-plexes.

HR 1824 Gains Support of Nine New Co-Sponsors
MAY 27/2003 — HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, has gained the support of nine new co-sponsors, bringing the number of U. S. Representatives who have signed on to the bill to 25. The new co-sponsors are:
Rep Boehlert, Sherwood L. [NY-24]
Rep Clay, Wm. Lacy [MO-1]
Rep Hinchey, Maurice D. [NY-22]
Rep Lowey, Nita M. [NY-18]
Rep McNulty, Michael R. [NY-21]
Rep Owens, Major R. [NY-11]
Rep Peterson, Collin C. [MN-7]
Rep Souder, Mark E. [IN-3]
Rep Woolsey, Lynn C. [CA-6]
A full list of co-sponsors of HR 1824 can be seen online. Sponsor List »
If you live in the Congressional District of a co-sponsoring Member of Congress, drop them a note saying "Thanks!"

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Gains Support
MAY 16/2003 — Fourteen additional members of the U. S. House of Representatives have indicated their support for HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, by co-sponsoring the legislation introduced in April by Representatives Curt Weldon (R.-PA) and James Langevin (D.-RI). Our thanks go out to these Members of Congress. If your Congressman is on this list, drop him or her a note saying "Thanks for Co-sponsoring HR 1824!
Timothy Bishop (D.-NY-1)
Jim Cooper (D.-TN-5)
Eni Faleomavaega (D.-American Somoa)
Martin Frost (D.-TX-24)
Bart Gordon (D.-TN-6)
Joseph Hoeffel (D.-PA-13)
Sheila Jackson-Lee (D.-TX-18)
Dale Kildee (D.-MI-5)
Nick Lampson (D.-TX-9)
John Larson (D.-CT-1)
Nick Smith (R.-MI-7)
Edolphus Towns (D.-NY-10)
Fred Upton (R.-MI-6)
Albert Wynn (D.-MD-4)

Design Correspondence Course Replaces Sprinkler Designer Series Book III
MAY 16/2003 — AFSA proudly introduces the third and final book in its Applied Sprinkler Technology Series. This 3-book series is an update of the AFSA Sprinkler Designer Correspondence Course that trains fire sprinkler system layout technicians and designers on all aspects of fire sprinkler system technology and design. Some of the topics addressed in Book III are: Codes and Standards; Metric Units and Conversions; Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection; Tanks in Fire Protection Design; Storage Criteria; Fire Protection Design For Rack Storage Systems; Low Expansion Foam Fire Protection; Flow Control Systems; Exposure Protection; Water Spray Systems; Special Hazard Fire Suppression Systems – Carbon Dioxide, Clean Agent, Dry Chemical and Wet Chemical; Water Mist; Alarm and Detection; Inspection and Maintenance; Project Management; Introduction to Estimating Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems; Contracts, Letters of Proposal; and Change Orders.
The books are divided into modules. Each module includes a series of lessons that cover a particular topic within the scope of that module. Test materials are provided to allow student testing on a periodic basis. Tests are then forwarded to AFSA's headquarters for grading, and the company is notified of each student's test score.
The books cost $250 for AFSA members and $450 for non-members. Order your copy online »

Exhibitors Gear Up for Boca Raton
AFSA's 2003 Convention & Exhibition Booths Filling Fast!
MAY 14/2003 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association's (AFSA) 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition, AFSA: Technology is Key for 2003 is fast approaching – have you reserved your booth? Set for September 10-14 at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton, Fla., this year's event features the 10th Annual Apprentice Competition, four exciting tours and a golf tournament. Early bird registration (offering discounted prices) ends May 30.
AFSA's Exhibition officially opens Thursday, September 11 at 8:00 a.m. at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. The Chairman's Reception on Thursday night kicks off the two-day exhibit with food, drinks and fun. A second exhibit viewing is offered for members and guests on Friday, September 12 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This is your chance to see the latest products and services available throughout the country as the AFSA Annual Convention hosts the largest fire sprinkler exhibition in North America. Make contacts with companies nationwide and place orders immediately. The Apprentice Competition is also held in the exhibit hall and is always exciting to observe – you don't want to miss this!
This year, AFSA has 120 booths in the main hall, 117 of which have already been reserved! Currently, 89 companies will be exhibiting at this year's show. Associates who would like to secure a booth should rush their booth applications to Marlene Garrett via fax at (214) 242-2155. For more information or an exhibitor brochure, call (214) 349-5965 ext. 118.

Arson Attempt Thwarted by Sprinkler System
MAY 9/2003 — According to the Associated Press, four fires over 11 days at places of worship in California's San Fernando Valley appear to have been the work of one person.
Fire Chief William Bamattre said he believes the fires were started by a single arsonist using an accelerant.
The latest fire came at Valley Beth Shalom on Ventura Boulevard early Wednesday morning. The fire was extinguished by the facility's sprinkler system.
Two blazes occurred Monday. One was reported at the Bahai Community Center and caused at least $10,000 damage. Nearly 12 hours later, a fire burned the roof of an Iranian synagogue. No damage estimate was available.
No one was hurt in any of the fires, which all occurred in the Encino area.
A small incendiary device appeared to have been tossed through a window of the Valley Beth Shalom synagogue, Hahn said at a news conference there.
The fire last month at the First Presbyterian Church caused about $20,000 damage. It occurred about 1 a.m. and gutted a church office, which is located next to a fire station.

Deadly Dorm Fire Contained and Doused by Sprinklers
MAY 09/2003 — A dormitory fire at Western Kentucky University early Sunday, May 4 was contained to the room of origin in the nine-story building, which had just been retrofitted with sprinklers. Sadly, Katie Autry, a WKU freshman from Pellville, died Wednesday, May 7, from third-degree burns suffered in the fire set in her room at Hugh Poland Hall.
An article in the Cincinnati Enquirer stated that the coroner has ruled out an accident or suicide, and police are searching for suspects. Autry had also suffered abrasions and puncture wounds on her neck and face. There were about 50 other students in the building at the time, but the fire did not spread. The article also quoted fire officials who pointed out the sprinkler success.
"According to early reports I have, it was put out by a sprinkler," said Ken Meredith, spokesman for the state fire marshal's office. "Obviously, the systems are very, very helpful."
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education has been working with the state colleges on a plan to install the systems in student residences that were built before sprinklers were required. Of the eight state-supported schools, only two are completely equipped with sprinkler systems - Kentucky State University in Frankfort and Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights. The six colleges that need to add the sprinkler systems plan to have them installed between now and September 2004.

June 2003

Five Additional House Members Co-Sponsor HR 1824
JUN 30/03 — Five additional Members of the U. S. House have signed on as co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, HR 1824, bringing the total number of co-sponsors to 43. The five new co-sponsors are:
Rep Baird, Brian - [WA-3]
Rep Brady, Robert - [PA-1]
Rep Dicks, Norman D. - [WA-6]
Rep Pascrell, Bill, Jr. - [NJ-8]
Rep Rothman, Steve R. - [NJ-9]
If one of these Congressional representatives represents the state in which you live, be sure to send them a letter saying "thank you" for their support of this important legislation, and their interest in saving lives and property through the use of fire sprinklers. A full list of co-sponsors of HR 1824 can be seen online. Sponsor List »

Nolensville, Tenn. Firefighters Talk About Sprinklers
JUN 26/2003 — Firefighters in Nolensville, Tennessee are going door-to-door to clear up misconceptions and get support for a proposed sprinkler ordinance in this town south of Nashville. Fire Chief Presley Hughes joined firefighters in visiting approximately 300 homes last week to talk about the ordinance that would require fire sprinkler systems in all new one- and two-family homes. The ordinance would not require retrofit of existing homes.

Sixty Minutes II to Re-Air Rhode Island Fire Story
JUN 25/2003 — Sixty Minutes II, a presentation of CBS News, will repeat their story about the tragic nightclub fire in Rhode Island, and provide an update of activity that has happened since the show originally aired last March. The news story was highly complimentary of automatic fire sprinklers. Sixty Minutes II will air Wednesday, June 25, at 8:00 PM Eastern/Pacific Time.

Leading Health and Fire Safety Advocates urge Ban on Consumer Fireworks
JUN 23/2003 — In a news release today, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and five other prominent health and fire safety advocates are calling for a ban on consumer fireworks use as Independence Day celebrations near. In 2001 an estimated 9,500 fireworks-related injuries were reported at hospital emergency rooms. The highest injury rates were among teens. For more statistics and further information, visit the NFPA Press Room.

U.S. Fire Administration Outlines National Residential Sprinkler Strategy
JUN 23/2003 — In a press release issued on June 18, the U. S. Fire Administration (USFA) has outlined an aggressive strategy for advocating residential fire sprinkler systems. Approximately 80 percent of fire deaths occur in the home, and the USFA is developing a strategy to deal with that problem. The strategy includes (1) aggressive advocacy of residential sprinklers in occupancies influenced or supported by the federal government; (2) localized fire suppression methods in high risk areas (e.g. kitchens) for retrofit applications; (3) advocacy and information support among stake holders including state and local decision makers; and (4) continued support for research and development in residential fire sprinkler technology.
It is not yet clear what form of "localized fire suppression methods" may be employed for residential retrofit applications. It is known that NIST is conducting studies in localized fire protection. AFSA has indicated that it cannot support unproven and untested localized fire suppression methods that are not sanctioned by or in compliance with NFPA consensus-based standards and codes.

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Gains Eight New Co-Sponsors
JUN 19/2003 — The total number of Congressional representatives co-sponsoring HR 1824, The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, has jumped to 37 with the addition of the following Members of Congress:
Rep Andrews, Robert E. - 6/17/2003 [NJ-1]
Rep Hall, Ralph M. - 6/17/2003 [TX-4]
Rep LoBiondo, Frank A. - 6/17/2003 [NJ-2]
Rep Pallone, Frank, Jr. - 6/17/2003 [NJ-6]
Rep Schakowsky, Janice D. - 6/17/2003 [IL-9]
Rep Tauscher, Ellen O. - 6/17/2003 [CA-10]
Rep Wamp, Zach - 6/17/2003 [TN-3]
Rep Wilson, Heather - 6/17/2003 [NM-1]
If one of these Congressmen represents the state in which you live, be sure to drop them a note saying "thank you" for their support of this bill, and their interest in saving lives and property through the use of fire sprinklers. A full list of co-sponsors of HR 1824 can be seen online. Sponsor List »

AFSA Exhibit Hall Sold Out!
JUN 19/2003 — AFSA has sold out the exhibit hall at the 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition in Boca Raton, Fla. Exhibitors are gearing up for the event and are anxious to demonstrate their new products. Because of the sold-out exhibit hall your registration now has more value than ever before. Don't miss the opportunity to improve upon your business and learn about products and services that you've never seen before at any other trade show. more info »

Bill Requires Sprinklers in Nursing Homes
JUN 19/2003 — A bill requiring all Connecticut nursing homes to be sprinklered by July 2005 and contractors to discuss residential sprinkler systems in new home construction projects with home buyers has passed the House and is now awaiting Senate action. State Representative Peter Panaroni authored the bill (HB 6579).

Sprinklers Control Nightclub Fire
JUN 19/2003 — A nightclub fire in downtown Modesto, Calif. on June 14 was controlled by three sprinkler heads and a fire extinguisher until fire fighters arrived. Someone intentionally started the blaze in a second floor hallway above the nightclub. Six hundred people were safely evacuated from the building. No injuries were reported. This is the second fire intentionally set in the last month. A May 18 fire caused over $3 million in damages.

Two Students Charged in Deadly Dorm Fire at Seton Hall
JUN 13/2003 — More than three years after a deadly fire swept through the lounge of a Seton Hall University dormitory, two men who were freshmen at the time have been charged with arson and murder.
Both have denied any role in the Jan. 19, 2000, blaze at Boland Hall that killed three students and injured more than 50 others. Joseph E. LePore, 21, of Florham Park and Sean Ryan, 21, of Livingston, were arrested Wednesday on charges of felony murder, arson and aggravated assault. LePore is also charged with obstruction of justice. Speaking during a news conference, Campolo said that LePore and Ryan - who were residents of the freshman dormitory - used a match or lighter to ignite a paper banner that had been torn down and placed atop a couch in a third-floor lounge.
The fire then quickly ignited the couch, which Campolo said was made with a highly flammable foam, and sent what he called "highly toxic" thick black smoke throughout the dorm while most of its 600 residents slept.
The fire was discovered about 4:30 a.m. As the smoke poured into the halls, scared students in pajamas grabbed coats or blankets and fled into bitter pre-dawn cold. One leaped from a window of the six-story hall.
Students Frank Caltabilota of West Long Branch, John Giunta of Vineland and Aaron Karol of Green Brook died in the fire. Two of the men were found in the lounge and the other was in a nearby room.
The 48-year-old building did not have sprinklers because it was built before they were required. The university has since installed them, and the state created a new law requiring all dorm rooms in New Jersey to have sprinklers by 2004.

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824) Gains More Support
JUN 05/2003 — The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824) has gained support with the co-sponsorship of five additional members of the U. S. House of Representatives. This brings the total number of sponsors/co-sponsors to 30. New co-sponsors include:
Rep Baker, Richard H. - [LA-6]
Rep Bradley, Jeb - [NH-1]
Rep Engel, Eliot L. - [NY-17]
Rep Feeney, Tom - [FL-24]
Rep Gallegly, Elton - [CA-24]
If one of these Congressmen represents the state in which you live, be sure to drop them a note saying "thank you" for their support of this bill, and their interest in saving lives and property through the use of fire sprinklers. A full list of co-sponsors of HR 1824 can be seen online. Sponsor List »

July 2003

California Adopts NFPA 5000™ and NFPA 1
JUL 30/2003 — The state of California has adopted model building and fire codes of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to protect public safety in the nation's most populous state. The California Building Standards Commission voted last night to adopt NFPA 5000™, Building Construction and Safety Code™ and NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code™ (NFPA 1, UFC). As a result of the Commission's action, the NFPA codes will provide the basis for the 2004 California Building Code and the 2004 California Fire Code.
The California state fire marshal recommended the adoption of NFPA 5000 and NFPA 1, UFC after determining that NFPA codes would provide California with "higher levels of safety" than would building and fire codes developed by the International Code Council (ICC). The state fire marshal's office had conducted a detailed and extensive review of the building and fire codes developed by NFPA and ICC. That review pointed to specific code provisions and NFPA's consensus-based code development process as key reasons that California should use NFPA's model codes.
The fire marshal's report indicated that NFPA's process for developing the building and fire codes, "...has led to the promulgation of codes that our technical review has found to be superior with respect to the protection of public safety." NFPA's codes were also supported by the California Fire Chiefs Association, and the California Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, along with numerous other groups. For this and other NFPA Headlines, please visit the NFPA Press Room.

NFPA Codes to be More Stringent in Wake of Disasters
JUL 30/2003 — On Monday, July 28, NFPA released the following announcement regarding Standards Council action on amendments to strengthen sprinkler requirements in NFPA codes. AFSA's VP of Engineering & Technical Services Roland Huggins, PE, and Ron Farr, past president of the International Fire Marshals Association, were the only representatives of national industry associations to address the NFPA Standards Council in support of these Tentative Interim Amendments. In addition, several local Authorities Having Jurisdiction attended the meeting to show their support for the amendments.
"July 28, 2003 - The Standards Council of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) on Friday issued amendments to the Association's two key safety codes. Precipitated by recent nightclub tragedies in both Rhode Island and Chicago, the amendments institute requirements that are believed at this time to be among the nation's most stringent.
"Effective in 20 days, the new requirements, also known as amendments, will strengthen NFPA safety codes: NFPA 101, Life Safety Code®, and NFPA 5000(tm), Building Construction and Safety Code(tm). The requirements call for fire sprinklers in all new nightclub-type facilities, and for existing nightclubs with occupancies exceeding 100. Also issued were restrictions to festival seating when occupancies exceed 250 (unless a life-safety evaluation is performed), a requirement for crowd managers for all places of assembly, and requirements for regular egress inspection and record-keeping for existing nightclubs.
"The genesis of these amendments is traced back to discussions that originated at a public forum and special meeting of the technical committee, held on March 13 in Boston. This meeting was held in response to the E2 nightclub crowd crush incident in Chicago and The Station nightclub fire in West Warwick, RI, both of which occurred in February and collectively resulted in 121 fatalities. " To learn more about the Standards Council decision, go to www.nfpa.org."

Hearing Set for Pennsylvania Legislation
JUL 30/2003 — A hearing is going to be held on August 12 in Harrisburg, PA on a significant piece of legislation-HB 781, the Student Residence Automatic Fire Suppression System Installation Loan Program. This bill takes aim directly at where the problem lies-in off-campus housing. Since January 2000, approximately 80% of the fatalities identified by Campus Firewatch have occurred in off-campus occupancies such as houses and apartments. HB 781 will provide low interest (2%) loans to property owners that install sprinklers in occupancies where five or more students live. Funding will be provided by appropriations from the general fund and a 1/20 of a cent tax on cigarettes.
More information is available at Campus Firewatch

Residents Seek To Overturn Sprinkler Law for New Homes
JUL 25/2003 — According to a report by Shirley Jacques of the Portsmouth Herald in Portsmouth, N.H., close to 500 residents have signed a petition to repeal the requirement for sprinkler systems in all new residential construction projects in the city of South Berwick, Maine.
The sprinkler Law has been added to the agenda for the Town Council workshop meeting scheduled for Monday, July 28.
Read the entire article here »

AFSA Convention Registration Deadline August 1
JUL 23/2003 — The registration deadline for AFSA's 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition to be held September 10-14, 2003 in Boca Raton, Fla., is August 1. Registrations must be made onsite after that date. Onsite convention registration opens September 10. Seminars will be held September 11 and 12. The exhibit hall will open the evening of September 11 for the Chairman's Reception, and will open again during the afternoon of September 12. We have several events planned including a Pool Party, Everglades Party and Awards Ceremony, General Session, 2003 National Apprentice Competition and the largest fire sprinkler exhibit in the United States. Several tours and a golf tournament will round out your experience while visiting us in Boca Raton. For convention details, to download a brochure, or to register online, go to convention site »

AFSA Postpones Virtual Seminar on Fire Sprinklers and the Built Environment
JUL 23/2003 — In an effort to better address comments and requests from Architect and Engineering professionals and assist them in more easily incorporating our seminars into their training plans, AFSA has rescheduled its three part virtual seminar "Fire Sprinklers and the Built Environment" until October 8, 22, and November 5, 2003. "Understanding Fire Sprinklers and What’s Needed From the Facility" will be held October 8, "The Impact of Sprinklers on Building Design Options" will be held October 22, and "The Impact of Building Options and Features on Sprinkler Installations" will be held November 5. All seminars will begin at 12:00PM Eastern time and will last 90 minutes. CEUs are offered. More details will be given as the first seminar date draws near.
This seminar series has been developed with input from architects and is written specifically for A&Es. So encourage the A&E professionals you deal with to listen in.

AFSA Chairman's Column Online
JUL 16/2003 — (Due to scheduling difficulties, AFSA was unable to include the chairman's article in the July issue of Sprinkler Age. However, you can read the complete column online:)
What a year! And it’s already half over. It seems like contractors have never worked so hard to accomplish so little. It’s been a familiar story since 9/11 – a soft economy due in part to uncertainty and a general lack of confidence. If that weren’t enough, here in the Southeast, unusually wet weather has pretty much brought new construction to a standstill.
Read the rest of the column »

Residential Fire Sprinklers Will be Featured on HGTV's New Series Titled "How's That Work?"
July 20, 2003 10:30 p.m. (EST)
July 21, 2003 1:30 a.m. (EST)
The segment includes a brief history of fire sprinklers, how they work and how sprinklers are now being installed in homes to protect families. HFSC provided the B-roll video footage along with background information. George Warren, Deputy Fire Marshal, Emeryville Fire Department (California) was also interviewed. " How's That Work" producers are providing HFSC with a master copy of the segment and gave HFSC permission to use the segment for non-broadcast educational usage.
Please check your local listings to confirm air time in your market. Check HGTV »

AFSA Offers Technical Seminars in Florida
JUL 14/2003 — When you register to attend AFSA's 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition in Boca Raton, Florida your registration entitles you admittance to many technical seminars that are hot topics in the industry today. The industry's leading speakers will be presenting these seminars. Topics include:
• NFPA 25, 2002 Edition (1.5 CPDs, 0.15 CEUs) presented by Russ Leavitt, SET
• The Vice of Gambling and the Virtue of Insurance: How FM Global Standards Impact
• Fire Protection Design (1.5 CPDs, 0.15 CEUs) presented by Joe Hankins
• NFPA 14 Update (2.0 CPDs, 0.2 CEUs) presented by Stephen Leyton
• Glass Bulbs for Use in Fire Sprinkers (1.5 CPDs, 0.15 CEUs) presented by Kerry Bell, Eduard Job, and Peter Thomas
• Design Issues for Residential Sprinklers - NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13D (1.5 CPDs, 0.15 CEUs) presented by Chris Dubay, PE
• NFPA 13 Update (4.0 CPDs, 0.4 CEUs) presented by Roland Huggins, PE, and John Denhardt, PE
AFSA is offering many other non-technical seminars of interest. For more details on the convention seminars refer to your convention brochure or go to the Convention Website today.

Six Additional House Members Co-Sponsor HR 1824
JUL 11/2003 — Six additional members of the U. S. House of Representatives have joined the growing list of co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824), introduced in April by Congressmen Curt Weldon and James Langevin. New sponsors are:
Rep Abercrombie, Neil - [HI-1]
Rep Barrett, J. Gresham - [SC-3]
Rep Holden, Tim - [PA-17]
Rep Lantos, Tom - [CA-12]
Rep Manzullo, Donald A. - [IL-16]
Rep Terry, Lee -[NE-2]
This brings to 49 the number of co-sponsors of this important legislation. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send them a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824.

Free Downloads Now Available Online
JUL 11/2003 – The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has updated its Report of Inspection Forms to comply more fully with the intent of the 2002 Edition NFPA 25. While still available in the popular three-part NCR pads, the forms can also be downloaded for free as PDF files from AFSA’s Document Center.
Several of the forms have been significantly modified and a new form, 114A – Report of Obstruction Investigation and Internal Condition of Fire Protection System Piping, has been added. Each pad contains 25 three-part sets (on NCR paper) of a single page for a specified report of inspection form. The pads are available to AFSA members for $10 each or $25 for non-members. Orders can be placed at AFSA's Online Store.

AFSA Announces Convention Registration Drawing
JUL 10/2003 — AFSA is gearing up for an exciting annual convention. To sweeten the pot, AFSA is conducting a drawing for fully registered members. You are entered into the drawing if you have already registered for a full registration. If you have not yet registered, send in your registration or upgrade to a full registrant by August 8, 2003 and you will be entered into the drawing. The winner will be able to choose one of the following activities (your choice):
• 1 Complimentary Spa Treatment in Spa Palazzo at the Boca Raton Resort & Club
• 1 Complimentary Round of Golf at the Boca Raton Resort & Club
• 1 Complimentary AFSA Sailing and Snorkeling Tour on Sat., Sept. 13
• 1 Complimentary AFSA Everglades Airboat Tour on Fri., Sept. 12
• Dinner for two in the Lucca Restaurant at the Boca Raton Resort & Club
Rules:
(1) You must be fully registered for the convention. (2) You must be a member of AFSA. (3) You must register by Aug. 8, 2003. (4) The drawing gift is valid only during the dates of Sept. 8-14, 2003. (5) This drawing will be held on Aug. 22, 2003.

NFPA Committee Recommends Tighter Sprinkler Requirements
JUL 09/2003 — The NFPA Technical Committee on Assembly Occupancies voted yesterday to recommend sprinklers in smaller buildings. That would mean a change to the NFPA's Life Safety Code to installing require sprinklers in new places of assembly with a capacity of 50 people or more and retrofit of existing buildings with a fire load of 100 or more.
AFSA's VP of Engineering & Technical Services Roland Huggins, PE, a member of numerous NFPA committees including the Committee on Assembly Occupancies, notes that the original committee recommendation requiring retrofit of sprinklers in existing occupancies of more than 300 was revised to occupancies of 100 or more after further study, which included fire modeling.
The new recommendations apply to nightclubs, discotheques, dance halls, bars and venues with festival seating. The recommended changes will be addressed by the NFPA Standards Council at its next meeting.
For more detailed coverage of this news, go to The Boston Globe

AP Reports New Fire Safety Legislation
JUL 09/2003 — According to the Associated Press, all colleges in the United States would have to compile and provide fire safety information about their facilities to students, parents and employees under legislation to be introduced today.
U.S. Sen. Jon Corzine, D-N.J., and U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-Paterson, will introduce the Campus Fire Safety Right to Know legislation at a news conference in Washington that is to be attended by Dana Christmas, the resident assistant credited with rescuing many students from the deadly Seton Hall University dormitory fire in 2000.
The AP story states that the legislation would require colleges and universities to collect and disseminate information on sprinkler systems, evacuation plans and other fire safety measures.

AFSA Honors Architect of the Capitol in Capitol Hill Ceremony
JUL 08/2003 — In a presentation ceremony at the United States Capitol today, AFSA recognized Alan Hantman, Architect of the Capitol, and his staff "for leadership and continuing contributions to the safety and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, its staff, emergency personnel and the public." Steve Muncy, AFSA President, congratulated Hantman and his staff for the tremendous progress in fire protection over the past few years. "The Capitol Complex is more than a group of historic buildings. It represents not only our past, but our future. The improvements of fire protection here should serve as an example to other historic buildings throughout the United States," Muncy said. Congressman Curt Weldon, Congressman from Pennsylvania and founder of the Congressional Fire Services Institute applauded the tremendous progress made in fire protection. "When I arrived here as a freshman Congressman," Weldon said, "the Capitol buildings did not comply with any code. There were no fire alarms and sprinklers. The Capitol buildings were a fire trap." A plaque was presented to Hantman from AFSA, NFSA and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. CFSI and NFSA representatives were also at the ceremony to participation in the presentation.

AFSA Offers Three-Part Virtual Seminar for Architects and Engineers on Fire Sprinklers and the Built Environment
JUL 02/2003 — AFSA will offer a three-part virtual seminar for architects and engineers "Fire Sprinklers and the Built Environment," October 8, 22, and November 5, 2003. "Understanding Fire Sprinklers and What’s Needed from the Facility" will be held October 8, " The Impact of Sprinklers on Building Design Options" will be held October 22, and "The Impact of Building Options and Features on Sprinkler Installations" will be held November 5. All seminars will begin at 12:00 PM Eastern time and will last 90 minutes. This series will offer 6.0 LU/HSW credits and 0.6 CEU credits approved by AIA/CES.

August 2003

Home Builders Installs Residential Sprinklers in Own Home
AUG 27/2003 — Longview, Texas home builder Gary Jones has decided to install residential sprinklers in the 4,500-sq ft home he is building. AFSA member Urban Fire Protection, Mesquite, Texas is installing the system.
Jones told Longview News-Journal reporter Jo Lee Ferguson, "When you start to learn about them, you'd be a fool not to use them."
Jones also stated he plans to install residential sprinklers in all homes he builds in the future. Read the entire article »

Residential Sprinklers Featured on Houston Newscast
AUG 27/2003 — Last week KHOU, a television station in Houston, Texas, aired a story about residential sprinklers and one home buyer's struggle to install them in his home. Mike Owens asked Newmark Homes to allow the installation of residential sprinklers as his home was being constructed. Owens gathered information from several websites including AFSA and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition in his efforts to educate the builder. In addition, the Texas Fire Sprinkler Contractors Association and Safe Home, Inc. (a Conroe, Texas-based, AFSA member contractor) assisted Owens with his efforts.
Initially the builder agreed to letting Owens rough-in the system and tie-in to the water supply after closing and then recanted. Owens contacted KHOU and reporter Carolyn Mungo, and her report aired on August 25. Owens plans to retrofit his home with sprinklers as soon as he closes on the home. Read the entire story or to view the video »

AFSA Offers Group Health Insurance to Members
AUG 27/2003 — AFSA members can now access its comprehensive group health insurance program that offers major medical, life insurance, and optional disability and dental coverage. This program was designed to meet the varying needs of AFSA members and is available through Mass Marketing Insurance Companies (MMIC), which has over 30 years of experience in the development of successful insurance programs for professional and trade associations. Through MMIC, members will be dealing with association health insurance specialists capable of offering the broadest range of insurance companies, policies and plans.
Coverage is available to individual members and those firms with two or more employees. For more information on the program »

AFSA Elects Directors
AUG 21/2003 — Based on the recent uncontested elections for Regional Director positions, and the results of an election for three At-Large Directors, the following have been elected to the Board for a three year term:
Region 1 - Tom McKinnon - Aegis Fire Systems, Pleasanton, CA
Region 4 - Dwight Bateman - Southeast Fire Protection - Houston, TX
At-Large - Martin Creasman - Central Fire Protection - Conyers, GA (re-elected)
At-Large - Donald Albares - American Sprinkler Company - Metairie, LA (re-elected)
At-Large - Joe Heinrich - Bamford Fire Sprinkler - Salina, KS
Newly elected directors will take office on September 14th at the conclusion of the AFSA Convention and Exhibition in Boca Raton, Florida.

Jack Viola Receives 2003 Parmelee Award
AUG 20/2003 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) announces John F. (Jack) Viola (HFP Corporation, Westfield, Mass.) as the recipient of its 2003 Henry S. Parmelee Award. The award recognizes an outstanding individual who has dedicated him or herself to the professional advancement of the automatic fire sprinkler industry and to the goal of fire safety through automatic sprinklers. AFSA Chairman Robert Rees will present the award to Viola during the general session of AFSA’s 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition, September 10-14 in Boca Raton, Fla.
During his 33-year career, Viola has worked as a fitter, designer, estimator, job superintendent, project manager, salesman, vice president of construction, and in 1981 he became president of the company. He holds numerous certificates and licenses in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont. He is also active on several boards and committees including the Massachusetts Sprinkler Fitters Licensing Board, Massachusetts Building Code Committee, and NFPA 5000™ Committee. Viola is a member of ABC, AFSA, NFPA, and SFPE.
Viola is a founding member of AFSA and served on its Board of Directors from its inception until 2001. He was also instrumental in the development of the open shop apprentice training program.

Gary Keith Named AFSA's Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year
AUG 20/2003 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association has chosen Gary Keith, Vice President of Building & Life Safety/Regional Operations for NFPA and Chairman of the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, as its 2003 Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year. Lawrence Thibodeau of Hampshire Fire Protection Co. Inc., Londonderry, N.H., who is a member of the AFSA Board of Directors and Chairman of the Legislative Committee, will present the award to Keith on September 11, during the general session of AFSA’s 22nd Annual Convention & Exhibition in Boca Raton, Fla.
Keith has chaired the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) since it was formed in 1996. Through its award-winning website, outstanding printed materials and feature segments on such television programs, HFSC has exposed millions of people in the U.S. and Canada to the life- and property-saving value of residential fire sprinklers. As Vice President of Building & Life Safety/Regional Operations for NFPA, Keith oversees ten regional offices that work with state and local officials to adopt NFPA codes and standards. He also has management responsibility for NFPA 5000™, Building Construction & Safety Code™, which is the first consensus-based model building code, and NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code®. Keith believes in practicing what he preaches, so retrofitted his own home in West Bridgewater.

State College, Pa. Calls for Fire Sprinklers in Greek Housing
AUG 19/2003 — State College, Pennsylvania has passed an ordinance calling for the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all Greek Housing by the year 2008. This is a retrofit requirement for all 52 Greek houses that are located within State College. Thirteen of these are currently equipped with sprinklers.
In addition to the retrofit, any property converted to Greek housing prior to 2008 will be required to be in compliance with this new ordinance. An article about this initiative by Shawn Kauffman from the Centre Region Code Administration appeared in the July issue of Campus Firewatch. The vote was unanimous.
Information from Campus Firewatch.

Montpelier, Vermont Sprinkler Ordinance Being Drafted
AUG 13/2003 — According to The Barre times/Montpelier Argus, the Montpelier, Vermont City Council has started drafting a sprinkler ordinance to protect downtown buildings, after a fire leveled a building in May. The ordinance has two parts: the first requires all new buildings be fitted with sprinklers and the second would required existing buildings to be retrofitted. Commercial and multi-unit apartment buildings would fall under the ordinance. Single-family housing would not be required to be sprinklered.
The draft includes a statement that all downtown buildings must be sprinklered within ten years. The council is looking at sources and programs to help fund the installations.

AFSA Beginning & Intermediate Fire Sprinkler System Planning Schools Set
AUG 12/2003 — The next two AFSA System Planning Schools are scheduled for November 3-7 (intermediate) and December 1-12 (beginning), 2003.
The Intermediate Design School is designed to help the experienced sprinkler layout technician enhance their understanding of NFPA 13. The one-week course is not just a reading of the standard, but addresses its application on the gray issues encountered in the real world. It will cover in depth obstructions, installation issues, new applications, design modifiers, hanging & bracing, and seismic.

Senate Version of Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Introduced
AUG 05/2003 — A companion bill to HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, has been introduced into the U. S. Senate by Senator Jon Corzine (Dem.-NJ). The Senate bill has not yet been received by the Government Printing Office, but it is believed the bill number S. 1566 has been assigned to the legislation. The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act provides incentives to install fire sprinklers by providing a method for five-year depreciation of sprinkler systems rather than the 39 year depreciation schedule currently used.

September

8 Killed in Fire at Nashville Nursing Home, 25 Residents Injured
SEP 26/2003 — According to the Associated Press, a late-night fire Thursday at a nursing home in Nashville has killed eight residents. At least 24 others were hurt, some seriously, with burns and smoke inhalation. Three firefighters were also hospitalized for heat exhaustion. Rescuers had to carry most of the home's 120 residents out of the burning building because they could not walk. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control. Investigators are now searching for its cause. The building was built in the mid-1960s and was not required to have a sprinkler system. The fire occurred at the NHC Healthcare Center of Nashville.

AFSA and The Connecticut Chapter of AFSA Present A Seminar
SEP 25/2003 — AFSA and the Connecticut Chapter of AFSA presents Changes & Updates to NFPA 13, NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, NFPA 20, NFPA 24, and NFPA 25. This 8-hour seminar is presented by Christian Dubay of NFPA and is scheduled for October 29 at the Central CT State University. For more information, please contact Leslie Joplin at (214) 349-5965, ext. 130.

Fire Safety Changes Proposed for New York City
SEP 23/2003 — Legislation will be submitted to the New York City Council next week that would require, among other things, retofitting tall buildings wwith fire sprinkler systems. That recommendation, along with several others, was given by a task force set up to study the World Trade Center collapse. Existing office buildings would have to comply with some of the stricter codes already in place for new buildings. An estimated 200-400 buildings that have nine-plus stories would have 15 years to retrofit. Most of the legislation submitted concerns new commercial buildings - requiring stronger steel joists and impact-resistant stairwells - giving people more time to escape.

AFSA Endorses HR 1613, The College Fire Prevention Act
SEP 19/2003 — AFSA has endorsed HR 1613, the College Fire Prevention Act, introduced by Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (Dem.-Ohio) to establish a demonstration incentive program within the Department of Education to promote installation of fire sprinkler systems, or other fire suppression or prevention technologies, in qualified student housing and dormitories. The legislation would provide for matching grants of up to $100 million for years 2004 through 2008 for the purpose of installing fire sprinkler systems, or other fire suppression or prevention technologies, in student housing and dormitories owned or controlled by such entities.

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Add New Co-Sponsors
SEP 18/2003 — Seven additional members of the U. S. House of Representatives have joined the growing list of co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824), introduced in April by Congressmen Curt Weldon and James Langevin. New sponsors are:
Rep Bartlett, Roscoe G. - [MD-6]
Rep Greenwood, James C. - [PA-8]
Rep Johnson, Timothy V. - [IL-15]
Rep Kennedy, Patrick J. - [RI-1]
Rep Menendez, Robert - [NJ-13]
Rep Saxton, Jim - [NJ-3]
Rep Wilson, Joe - [SC-2]
This brings to 58 the number of co-sponsors of this important legislation. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send them a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824

AFSA Elects New Officers
SEP 17/2003 — During the AFSA Convention & Exhibition in Boca Raton, Fla., new officers were elected and new Board members installed. AFSA officers for 2003-2004 are:
Chairman - Martin Giles, VSC Corporation, Ashland, Virginia
1st Vice Chairman - Manning Strickland, Strickland Fire Protection, College Park, Maryland
2nd Vice Chairman - Larry Thibodeau, Hampshire Fire Protection, Londonderry, New Hampshire
Secretary - Don Eckert, Eckert Fire Protection Systems, Cincinnati, Ohio
Treasurer - Martin Creasman, Central Fire Protection, Conyers, Georgia
Immediate Past Chairman - Robert Rees, Sunland Fire Protection, Jamestown, North Carolina
Newly installed members of the Board of Directors include:
Region 1 - Tom McKinnon, Aegis Fire Systems, Pleasanton, California
Region 4 - Dwight Bateman, Southeast Fire Protection, Houston, Texas
At-Large - Joe Heinrich, Bamford Fire Sprinkler, Salina, Kansas

What a Show - AFSA's 22nd Convention & Exhibition!
SEP 16/2003 — AFSA's 2003 Convention & Exhibition in Boca Raton, Fla., wowed contractors and exhibitors alike, as nearly 1100 individuals came to the magnificent Boca Raton Resort & Club to learn more about management and technology in the fire sprinkler industry and to see the latest in products and technology at the largest fire sprinkler industry exhibition in the U.S.
The 2003 convention opened Thursday, September 11, with morning seminars offering information as well as CEUs, followed by an entertaining opening general session featuring comedian and ventriloquist Taylor Mason and his puppets. A highlight of the general session was the recognition of AFSA’s 2003 Henry S. Parmelee Award recipient John F. “Jack” Viola and 2003 Fire Sprinkler Advocate Gary Keith. In addition, AFSA Chairman of the Board Bob Rees recognized the efforts of retiring board members Bill Corbin, Lowell Gillett, and Gina Kanter, and he introduced newly elected board members: Dwight Bateman, Joe Heinrich, and Tom McKinnon. The day closed with the traditional Chairman’s Reception in which members packed the aisles of the AFSA Exhibit Hall to talk to manufacturers and suppliers while they enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
Friday activities included more valuable seminars in the morning, followed by another afternoon of exhibits in which the seven finalists in AFSA’s National Apprentice Competition installed mini-sprinkler systems before another packed crowd. Members and guests spent the evening enjoying an outdoor Calypso party, with food, drinks, music and fun.
The AFSA golf tournament took place Saturday morning with First Place going to the team of Don Eckert, Tom Field, Matt Kuwatch, and Gary Smith. Other winners from the golf tournament include Hugh Blair and Linda Biernacki for Longest Drive; and Martin Creasman and Nancy Stoddard for Closest to The Pin. Non-golfers had an opportunity to go sailing and snorkeling, or just hang out at the beach. The Everglades party that evening offered another beautiful night by the ocean, where members enjoyed an evening of dining, dancing, and as a special treat for animal lovers, visiting with native wild animals and reptiles. A highlight of the evening was the announcement of Apprentice Competition winners: First Place, Region 7 - Richard Russo, Jr.; Second Place, Region 5 - Josh Stephens; and Third Place, Region 3 - Todd Sweet.
See Photos From The Convention »

October

HR 1824 Gains Additional Support
OCT 30/2003 — HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, picked up additional support this week with five additional members of the House of Representatives signing as co-sponsors. New co-sponsors are:
Rep DeLauro, Rosa L. - [CT-3]
Rep English, Phil - [PA-3]
Rep Rogers, Mike - [MI-8]
Rep Simmons, Rob - [CT-2]
Rep Wu, David - [OR-1]
This brings to 83 the number of co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, almost 20% of the total House membership. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824. [more info]

AFSA Announces Design School Dates for 2004!
OCT 30/2003 — AFSA will host 5 of its popular Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning Schools in 2004. The dates are: February 9-20, April 26-May 7, August 2-13, October 4-15, and December 6-17.
There are only 14 spots available in each class & they fill up quickly! Register NOW to secure your spot! [more info].

Chicago Mayor Reconsiders High-Rise Retrofits
OCT 22/2003 — According to CBS 2 in Chicago, Mayor Richard Daley is reconsidering whether older buildings should be required to have automatic sprinkler systems. In addition to changing city codes, the mayor wants to ban locking stairwell doors.
Experts state that the lack of sprinklers above the ground floor and stairwell doors that locked, trapping occupants, contributed to the death of six people when fire broke out October 17 in the Cook County Administration building. Several other people still remain hospitalized.

Chicago Fire Claims Six Lives
OCT 21/2003 — A malfunctioning light fixture looks like the cause of a deadly fire in a Chicago government office building October 17. The blaze killed six people. Five others remain hospitalized. The fire started in a 12th floor storage room, located in the Secretary of State's office in the Cook County Administration Building. City code does not require high-rises constructed before 1975, even if they are later renovated, to have sprinkler systems. Therefore, 35-story building complied with all building and fire codes, but had no sprinklers above the first floor.

Support for Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Grows with Additional Co-Sponsors
OCT 21/2003 — Eighteen additional members of the U. S. House of Representatives have joined the growing list of co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824), introduced in April by Congressmen Curt Weldon and James Langevin.
Rep Blackburn, Marsha [TN-7]
Rep Burr, Richard [NC-5]
Rep Case, Ed [HI-2]
Rep Conyers, John, Jr. [MI-14]
Rep Frank, Barney [MA-4]
Rep Gibbons, Jim [NV-2]
Rep Gilchrest, Wayne T. [MD-1]
Rep Gonzalez, Charles A. [TX-20]
Rep Green, Gene [TX-29]
Rep Johnson, Nancy L. [CT-5]
Rep Jones, Stephanie Tubbs [OH-11]
Rep Lipinski, William O. [IL-3]
Rep Markey, Edward J. [MA-7]
Rep McGovern, James P. [MA-3]
Rep Napolitano, Grace F. [CA-38]
Rep Porter, Jon C. [NV-3]
Rep Walsh, James T. [NY-25]
Rep Wolf, Frank R. [VA-10]
This brings to 76 the number of co-sponsors of this important legislation. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824. [more info]

Act Quickly... Wonderful Opportunity for Funding Fire Safety and Prevention Programs Will End Soon! Sprinkler System Installations Eligible for Funding
OCT 17/2003 — FEMA has announced the application period for 2003 Fire Prevention & Safety Grants will be open October 16, 2003 through November 14, 2003. The program, which will make up to $27.5 million available for fire prevention activities (maximum of $750,000 per grant recipient), seeks to address the nation’s fire problem, particularly the death and injury rates to young children, seniors and the firefighters called to respond to fires. This grant offers a very special opportunity to communities and organizations that are interested in public education about automatic fire sprinklers, promoting local fire sprinkler ordinances, AND retrofitting existing buildings with automatic fire sprinklers. Fire prevention and safety projects are the only eligible activities under the program. Installation of fire sprinkler systems and fire alarm systems into existing structures shall be eligible for funding.
This is a terrific opportunity for AFSA Chapters, affiliated state associations, or other fire protection organizations to obtain funds needed to build a sprinkler demonstration trailer; retrofit existing elementary schools, children’s activity centers, senior citizen centers; or any number of expensive and worthwhile projects.
However, you must act NOW!
Completed applications must be received online or postmarked by 5:00 pm EST, November 14, 2003. (FEMA encourages all applicants to apply online using FEMA’s electronic (e-grant) application process. Also, all grant applicants must obtain a DUNS number, which is free but may take 14 business days to obtain.
Detailed information on this wonderful opportunity and how to apply is available at the web address listed below. Please don’t delay and miss out on this program!

NFPA President Calls for Fire Sprinklers in All Nursing Homes
OCT 16/2003 — The president of NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) today called for all nursing homes in the U.S. to be equipped with fire sprinklers, in the wake of two recent nursing home fires in Hartford and Nashville, where a total of 24 people died.
In his statement, President James M. Shannon said that although the nursing home industry has made great strides in recent years to ensure residents are safe in the event of fire, more needs to be done. Sprinklers are already required in all new and many existing nursing homes, but where they are not yet required they must be added to the package of fire protection provided by existing codes and standards. He said nursing homes should be protected with more stringent fire protection because their residents are the least capable of saving themselves from fire.

Sprinklers Control Nursing Home Fire
OCT 15/2003 — A fire last night in a Rocky Mount, N.C. nursing home was contained by overhead sprinklers. The fire started in a dryer full of bed linens. The residents were evacuated and were able to return to their rooms later that night. Four residents were taken to the hospital as a precaution.

AFSA California Chapters Gain Apprenticeship Standards Approvals
OCT 15/2003 — AFSA's Southern and Northern California Apprenticeship Training Committees have received approval from the U.S. Department of Labor to operate statewide apprenticeship standards. Program Director John Upshaw says the addition of the new federal standards, which will operate concurrently with the current California state approved program, will be a boost to program membership and participation.
"Contractors who in the past have been reluctant to participate in the state-approved program because of state policies which discriminate against the non-union sector will be more inclined to sign up for the federal program. This is a real boost to California apprenticeship opportunities," said Upshaw.
California contractors who would like more detailed information about how this issue will impact their individual businesses should contact Upshaw at (925) 944-9421.

AFSA New Jersey Chapter Formed
OCT 15/2003 — AFSA gains momentum in the northern New Jersey and southern New York area with the formation of a new chapter. Officers for AFSA’s New Jersey Chapter are Chairman Robert Young, Metro Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Carlstadt, N.J.; Secretary Bob Melofchik, Kandall Fabricating & Supply, Passaic, N.J.; and Treasurer Tom Bravante, Bravante Automatic Sprinkler Corporation, Boonton, N.J.
The chapter will hold its first meeting October 15 to discuss important issues facing its members and outline the direction it will take. For more information, contact Chairman Robert Young at (201) 635-0400.

Pending Legislation Seeks to Make Lifesaving Technology More Accessible
OCT 09/2003 — During Fire Prevention Week, Congressman Curt Weldon (R-PA) will be a special guest on the Imus in the Morning radio show on Friday, October 10, 2003.  Congressman Weldon will take the opportunity to discuss his legislation designed to increase the availability of fire sprinklers. The interview will also be televised nationally on MSNBC.
Congressman Weldon's Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003, provides tax incentives through changes in depreciation guidelines for the installation of sprinkler systems. Many buildings built before 1974 are often exempt from installing the expensive systems and some jurisdictions do not require fire suppression systems at all.
Weldon, a former volunteer fire chief and founder of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, has been the most outspoken and knowledgeable member of Congress with regard to fire and emergency services issues.

Council Approves Bill to Require Fire Sprinkler Systems in New Single-Family Homes
OCT 08/2003 — Prince George's County has required sprinklers in all new residential buildings since 1989 and both Rockville and Gaithersburg adopted the requirement last year. "Sprinklers save lives," said Council Member Andrews, who championed the measure as chair of the Council's Public Safety Committee. "This law bolsters our efforts to protect life and property against fire." The measure won support from County firefighters and from the County Executive, to whom the bill now goes for signature into law.

Residential Sprinklers Proposed for Montgomery Co., Md.
OCT 08/2003 — On October 7 the Montgomery County, Md. county council unanimously passed a measure that would require sprinklers in all homes for which the county issues building permits. County Executive Douglas M. Duncan must sign the bill to make it law and has stated he supports the measure. If passed, the law would take effect next year.

Residential Sprinkler Ads to Air on HGTV in October
OCT 06/2003 — The Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) has scheduled advertising on HGTV (Home & Garden Television) for the next few weeks. The two 30-second spots featuring Ron Hazelton will run 34 times with a guaranteed reach of 6.1 million adults 25 to 54 years old.
The spots will be showing during various episdoes of "Dream House," "Dream Builders," "This Old House Classics," and "Room by Room." They will also be featured during regular rotation. Please check your local listings or the HGTV website to confirm program scheduling.

November 2003

Connecticut Legislation Mandates Sprinklers In Nursing Homes, and Homebuilder Notification
NOV 19/2003 — Recently enacted legislation in Connecticut (Senate Bill 2001) requires automatic fire extinguishing systems in all chronic and convalescent nursing homes and rest homes by July 1, 2005. Owners or agents of each nursing home must submit plans for the installation of systems, signed and sealed by a licensed professional engineer, no later than July 1, 2004. Fines of up to $1,000 per day can apply for violations.
In another significant action, the legislation also requires new home construction contractors to discuss with the consumer the installation of an automatic fire extinguishing system in a new home.

Twenty Percent of House Members Now Co-Sponsor Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
NOV 19/2003 — Eight additional Members of the U. S. House of Represenatives have signed on as co-sponsors of HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. They are:
Rep Biggert, Judy - [IL-13]
Rep Grijalva, Raul M. - [AZ-7]
Rep Gutierrez, Luis V. - [IL-4]
Rep Jackson, Jesse L., Jr. - [IL-2]
Rep Rogers, Mike - [MI-8]
Rep Rush, Bobby L. - [IL-1]
Rep Shimkus, John - [IL-19]
Rep Smith, Adam - [WA-9]
This brings the total number of sponsors to 94, twenty percent of the total membership of the House! If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824. [more info]

Redding, Calif. Protects Smaller Buildings With Sprinklers
NOV 19/2003 — According to the Record Searchlight, the Redding, Calif. city council has approved to change their municipal code to require sprinklers in smaller office buildings — 6,200 square feet vs. 11,300 square feet. Builders were objecting to the measure and met with fire officials, who agreed to allow less expensive quick-action sprinklers in commercial buildings between the two square footages.
Builders now back the code, which could reduce sprinkler compliance costs by 50 percent. NFPA has endorsed these lighter, quick-action sprinklers in office buildings but not restaurants, print shops, and other higher-hazard businesses.

Chicago High-Rise Will Be Retrofitted
NOV 19/2003 — According to WBBM News Radio 780 in Chicago, Ill., the Cook County Administration Building will be retrofitted with sprinklers. Bids will be sent out next week.
Six people died and several were injured when the building caught fire October 17. Only the first floor was protected with sprinklers. The building was built in 1975, when sprinklers were not required above the first floor.
The City Council continues to debate whether to require all high-rises to be retrofitted with sprinklers.

Home Fire Sprinklers Protect Neighborhood
NOV 18/2003 — Several factors, including home fire sprinklers, are being credited with saving a neighborhood during last month's devastating fires in Southern California. According to The Press-Enterprise, a fire that lasted two weeks and destroyed 135 homes and more than 59,000 acres didn’t have much effect on the Hunter's Ridge community in Fontana.
Fire officials credit the weather, timing and planning. One important factor was the fire safety features in the community, which was built in the mid-1990s. Homes built of stucco and tile roofs surrounded by concrete brick walls helped. In addition, every home is protected by a residential sprinkler system, a result of a 1986 ordinance.
Fire officials commented that during wildland fires, radiated heat alone can cause the contents of a house to ignite, spreading the fire from inside. If that had happened in the Hunter's Ridge community, the sprinklers would have extinguished the fire before it had a chance to spread.

New Sponsors Boost Support for HR 1824
NOV 12/2003 — Four additional Members of the House of Representatives have signed on as co-sponsors to support HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. New co-sponsors are:
Rep Bonner, Jo - [AL-1]
Rep Foley, Mark - [FL-16]
Rep Hoekstra, Peter - [MI-2]
Rep Hyde, Henry J. - [IL-6]
This brings to 86 the number of co-sponsors of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824. [more info]

Minnesota Fire Officials Speak Out On Importance of Sprinklers
NOV 06/2003 – Although no one was injured in a three-alarm fire of unknown causes in an Edina, Minnesota office building last week, local fire officials were quick to note that automatic fire sprinklers would have certainly had a big impact in loss reduction for the fire loss that could reach as much as $1 million.
According to the Sun Newspapers, installation of a sprinkler system was not required in the buildings when it was built in the 1970s, but fire officials emphasized the role that sprinklers could have played in this fire.
“This is another great example of how fire sprinklers would make a huge difference,” said Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson. “This would have been taken care of by one sprinkler head.”
“Sprinklers would have probably extinguished the fire before our arrival,” Edina Fire Chief Marty Scheerer added.

Chicago Mayor Presents Fire Codes Proposal
NOV 06/2003 – Yesterday Chicago Mayor Richard Daley formally proposed a requirement for sprinklers in commercial high-rise buildings and a ban on locked stairwell doors. Under the Mayor's plan, residential buildings and landmarks will be exempt, but residential high-rises without sprinklers must be inspected and evaluated on their safety systems. All new buildings four stories and higher would be required to be sprinklered. The sprinkler requirement would be phased in by 2016. The proposals are a result of a deadly fire on October 7, 2003 in Chicago. Six people died and several people were injured when the Cook County Administration Building caught fire. Sprinklers were only present on the first floor of the building, which was required by code when the building was constructed.

ABC's Primetime Thursday to Air Report on Nightclub Fire Safety
NOV 06/2003 — The ABC television network show Primetime Thursday is expected to air an investigative report focusing on nightclub fire safety on Thursday, Nov. 6 at 10 p.m. ET / 9 p.m. CT.
The show's producers conducted a three-month investigation in various cities across the United States to determine what steps have been taken to improve nightclub fire safety since the Feb. 20 fire in West Warwick, R.I. that killed 100 people. The investigation discovered that most cities have made little or no changes to improve fire safety in these venues.

Chicago Fire Sparks Recommendations On Sprinkler Changes
NOV 05/2003 — Chicago Mayor Richard Daley is proposing changes in the city's fire ordinance. The proposal calls for older commercial high-rise buildings to be retrofitted with automatic fire sprinklers by January 1, 2016. All residential high-rise buildings will be required to have fire safety plans in place within six years and updated alarm systems. Mayor Daley would also like to see some public areas be protected by sprinklers. Commercial buildings with residential floors and landmarks would be exempt under his proposal.
Chicago Alderman Edward Burke has announced he will recommenda another more far-reaching proposal, one that will require all new commercial and residential high-rise buildings to be sprinklered. Existing buildings will be required to be retrofitted by 2008.
The proposals are the result of a deadly fire on October 7, 2003 in Chicago. Six people died and several people were injured when the Cook County Administration Building caught fire. Sprinklers were only present on the first floor of the building, which was required by code when the building was constructed.

Five Members of Ways and Means Committee Co-Sponsor Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
NOV 05/2003 — Prospects for HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, have improved with the co-sponsorhip of five members of the House Ways and Means Committee, the committee to which HR 1824 has been assigned. Committee members co-sponsoring the the legislation are: Rep. Nancy L. Johnson (R.-CT), Rep. Phil English (R.-PA), Rep. Mark Foley (R.-FL), Rep. Eric Cantor (R.-VA), and Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D.-OH). If your state is represented by one of these representatives, be sure to thank them for their support. [more info]

AFSA Virtual Seminar Addresses Pressure Reducing Valves
NOV 05/2003 — AFSA will host a 90-minute virtual seminar: Pressure Reducing Valves on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern, noon Central, 11:00 a.m. Mountain, and 10:00 a.m. Pacific times.
Guest speaker Rick Matsuda, fire protection engineer for the City of Dallas, Building Inspection Department, will discuss various makes and models of pressure reducing valves as used with fire hose connections and sprinkler systems. He will also address the differences between “factory set” and “field adjustable” valves, as well as cover issues concerning hydraulic design, plan review, inspection, and maintenance. The seminar is intended for anyone involved in the design or installation of sprinkler systems and will benefit AHJs, contractors, building owners or representatives, insurance representatives, architects and engineers.
AFSA’s virtual seminars allow listeners to use a touch-tone phone to hear and participate in discussions about various subjects of interest to the fire sprinkler industry. The registration fee includes a connection that can be used by more than one person and a PowerPoint presentation for those interested. Much like participating in a talk radio program, listeners can ask questions and receive answers “live.” In addition, attendees receive 0.15 CEUs and 1.5 CPDs.

December 2003

Chicago Residents Push For Sprinklers
DEC 12/2003 — Residents lined up in support of requiring automatic fire sprinklers in highrise buildings in Chicage at a recent Chicago City Council committee hearing on December 10th. Among those testifying was Maureen Marley who was trapped in a highrise Chicago fire in January 2002. [read the complete story]

Additional House Members Co-Sponsor Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
DEC 10/2003 — Five additional Members of the U. S. House of Represenatives have signed on as co-sponsors of HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. They are:
Rep Costello, Jerry F. - IL-12]
Rep Davis, Danny K. - [IL-7]
Rep Emanuel, Rahm - [IL-5]
Rep Herger, Wally - [CA-2]
Rep Jenkins, William L. - [TN-1]
Rep LaHood, Ray - [IL-18]
This brings the total number of House sponsors to 100. If one of the House Members represents the state in which you live, be sure to send a letter saying "thanks" for their interest in saving lives and property through their support of HR 1824. [more info]

City Deal With A Building Developer Provides For Residential Fire Sprinklers
DEC 09/2003 — Costa Pacific, a home developer, has entered a tentative agreement with Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue (TVF&R) and the City of Wilsonville, Ore. for a planned community "Villebois." According to a news article in the Wilsonville Spokesman, the agreement provides that the homebuilder would pay for the home fire sprinklers in multi-family housing and commercial buildings. Under terms of a tentative agreement the development would become the first planned community in Oregon with indoor sprinkler protection in every building.
The city and its proposed new urban renewal district (URD) would each pay (indirectly) a share of the sprinkler costs in single-family homes, the newspaper claims. The city had planned to build several water reservoirs as part of the city's Water Master Plan. The need for less water to fight fires because of the existence of sprinklered structures delays the costs of building those reservoirs, thereby creating savings and resulting in a reduced net figure of what the URD would pay. It would reduce systems development charges by an amount corresponding to estimate sprinkler costs so that homebuilders can have the sprinklers installed on a break-even basis.

Sprinklers Save Apartment and Residents
DEC 03/2003 — Fire officials in Council Bluffs, Iowa have credited a sprinkler system with saving at least three people December 3. A kitchen fire started around midnight at the Deerfield Apartments. Officials state the family might have slept through the fire had it not been for the sprinklers, which quickly extinguished the flames. [Complete Story]

Berkeley, Ill. Passes Residential Ordinance
DEC 01/2003 — Effective immediately, Berkeley Village, Ill. has passed an ordinance requiring all new, single-family homes and town houses to have home fire sprinklers installed. [Complete Story]