Fire Sprinkler Facts and Myths

FACT

Sprinklers reduce injuries by at least 80%, reduce property damage by 90% and substantially reduce damage to the environment from fire.

FACT

More than 70 million sprinkler heads are installed worldwide each year …

FACT

Fire sprinklers are widely recognised as the single most effective method for fighting the spread of fires in their early stages.

FACT

Sprinklers protect the lives of firefighters and are fully supported by fire services.

MYTH

When there is a fire all the sprinkler heads go off at once. Wrong. Each head is independent and only the head(s) adjacent to the fire go off.

FACT

The installation of fire sprinklers could virtually eliminate fire deaths.

MYTH

Water damage is as bad as the fire damage. Wrong. A Typical sprinkler discharges 55 litres per minute. A firefighting hose discharges over 600 litres per minute.

FACT

Automatic sprinkler systems have enjoyed an enviable record of protecting life and property for over 150 years.

MYTH

Sprinklers can go off accidentally. Wrong. Records show that the chance of an accidental discharge from a sprinkler is very rare.

MYTH

A sprinkler system needs its own pump. Wrong. If there is sufficient flow and water town mains can be sufficient or a booster set can be shared with the domestic supply

MYTH

Sprinklers are expensive. Wrong. A correctly designed, installed and certified sprinkler system can reduce insurance premiums and can be cost effective to install

MYTH

Sprinklers need a back up power supply. Wrong. Only systems that require an enhanced water supply require a back up supply