Here at Metropolitan Fire Protection, we believe there isn’t enough time to cover everything about fire prevention in just one week, especially when it comes to fire sprinkler systems. Fire sprinklers are widely recognized as the single most effective method for suppressing fires before they have a chance to spread, but their effectiveness is often downplayed by all kinds of myths, like they activate at random times or cause thousands of dollars in water damage. We’re here to put those rumors to rest with some fast fire facts to show how effective fire sprinklers truly are.
Fast Fire Facts
Fire sprinklers are the unsung hero in fire protection systems, reducing death and injury rates, saving your possessions, and being a better alternative for the environment. Let’s take a look at why:
Lower Death & Injury Rates
The NFPA reported in 2024 that in properties with automatic extinguishing systems like a fire sprinkler system, the civilian fire death rate per fire was 90% lower, and the civilian fire injury rate was 32% lower. Additionally, they reported that the rate of firefighter injuries per fire was 35% lower. A big factor behind this statistic is that sprinkler systems can control the fire quickly, or put the fire out entirely. From 2017 to 2021, fire sprinklers were effective at controlling the fire in 97 percent of fires in which they operated.
Protecting Your Possessions
Contrary to popular belief, fire sprinklers are more effective at saving your personal items than any other fire prevention method. Most people expect that when a sprinkler system is activated, the entire facility’s sprinklers go off, causing thousands of dollars in water damage, when in reality, fire sprinkler systems are activated by the heat in individual areas, so only the closest fire sprinkler would activate in a fire. The American Fire Sprinkler Association reports that the average fire loss in a house with a sprinkler system is $2,166 as opposed to $45,019 in a home without the protection.
Environmentally Friendly
The most shocking fact about fire sprinkler systems is that they’re better for the environment than you might expect. While a fire sprinkler system uses a large volume of water to suppress the fire, it is notably less than a fire department would use. THe American Fire Sprinkler Association says sprinklers reduce the amount of water used to fight a fire by up to 90% as well as water and air pollution generated by a fire.
Check It Once, Check It Twice
Now that you see how much a quality fire sprinkler system can benefit you and your business, let’s make sure it’s working properly! Take some time to go through our checklist and make sure your system is working well
Check Water Pressure and Supply
Verify that the water pressure meets system requirements and the water supply is adequate, including any water tanks or backflow prevention devices
Look For Visible Damage or Leaks
Conduct a visual inspection of sprinkler heads and pipes for signs of leaks, corrosion, or physical damage. Repair or replace any damaged components immediately.
Schedule Professional Inspections and Maintenance!
Call the MFP team! We can help maintain your sprinkler system so you save money, save time, and most importantly, save lives. Contact us today!