2004 News Items

ASSE Endorses Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
JAN 26/2004 — American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) President James "Skipper" Kendrick, CSP, announced today ASSE's support for the 'Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003,' S. 1566 and HR 1824, being considered by Congress. In letters to U.S. Senator Jon Corzine (NJ) and Representative Curt Weldon (PA), sponsors of the bills, Kendrick stated, "Without doubt, fire sprinklers save lives, and, when they are not present in structures, needless deaths occur. A sprinkler system will help control a fire, if not extinguish it, in its earliest stages."

Six Die In Greenville Hotel Fire
JAN 26/2004 — An installed automatic fire sprinkler system could have prevented a fire from spreading at the Comfort Inn Hotel in Greenville, SC Sunday morning. The fire caused six deaths and multiple injuries. According to local officials, the five-story hotel, built in the 1980's, was not required to have fire sprinklers because of the codes that were enforced at that time. In a press release issued by the American Fire Sprinkler Association, AFSA President Steve Muncy said these tragedies will continue to occur until all hotels and motels are required to have fire sprinklers. "It is imperative that Congress pass HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, to provide tax incentives to install sprinklers," Muncy said. "We know the solution to this problem. HR 1824 will help hotel operators pay for that solution." HR 1824, introduced last April by Congressman Curt Weldon (R-PA) and Congressman James Langevin (D-RI), will amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to classify automatic fire sprinkler systems as five-year property for purposes of depreciation. This allows the cost of the system to be depreciated much more quickly, five years versus 39 years.

3 Die In Another Tennessee Nursing Home Fire
JAN 21/2004 — A nursing home fire in Maryville, Tennessee claimed the lives of three residents only hours after passing a surprise inspection of the facility. The nursing home was not required to have sprinklers because of a 'grandfather clause' for nursing homes built before 1997. AFSA President Steve Muncy responded to news of the fire saying "These tragedies will continue to occur until all nursing homes are required to have sprinklers. It is imperative that Congress pass HR 1824 to provide tax incentives to install sprinklers. We know the solution to this problem. HR 1824 will help nursing home operators pay for that solution."

Monterey, Calif. Officials Propose Tougher Sprinkler Ordinance
JAN 07/2004 — Fire officials in Monterey, Calif. are proposing a stricter sprinkler ordinance for their area, one that would require sprinklers in all new construction (including single-family homes and duplexes) and in any other buildings having major renovations. The ordinance will be proposed to the city council January 20. [more details]

AFSA's February Design School Sold Out; Next School April 26
JAN 07/2004 — AFSA's Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School to be held February 9-20 is completely sold out. The next available class is April 26-May 7. The class is held at AFSA’s training center in Dallas, Texas and offers focused training on sprinkler system layout. This school presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction: 60 percent is study and review of NFPA 13 (2002 Edition) and 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations.

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Gains Additional Sponsors
FEB 27/2004 — HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, has gained six new cosponsors in the U. S. House of Representatives during the month of February. Joining the growing number of sponsors for HR 1824 are: Rep Bob Beauprez [CO-7], Rep Lane Evans [IL-17] , Rep Rush Holt [NJ-12] , Rep Thaddeus G. McCotter [MI-11] , Rep Donald M. Payne [NJ-10] , Rep David E. Price[NC-4]. If one of the new sponsors  represents the area in which you live or work, be sure to drop them a note thanking them for their advocacy and interest in life safety. There are now 110 sponsors of HR 1824. See the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act webpage for the latest info.

AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Prices Increase July 1
FEB 19/2004 — Those interested in AFSA's Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School should register for the remaining 2004 classes BEFORE July 1, 2004, when registration prices increase. There are five remaining classes for 2004: April 26 - May 7, June 21 - July 2, August 2-3, October 4-15, and December 6-17. The current prices for design school are $1100 for AFSA members and $1500 for non-members. The rates will increase after July 1 to $1200 for AFSA members and $1700 for non-members. The early bird discount of $200 will still apply.
This school presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two weeks of instruction, 60% is study and review of NFPA 13 (2002) and 40% is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations.

Virginia Task Force Offers Recommendations
FEB 19/2004 — A Virginia task force is recommending stronger enforcement and tougher fire safety rules for nightclubs and other public assembly buildings, a year after The Station's deadly blaze. It did not ban using fireworks indoors nor did it recommend retrofitting nightclubs with sprinkler systems. It did recommend at least one person experienced with pyrotechnics be on site when they are used and that fees should be charged for pyrotechnic permits.

Illinois Considers Sprinklers for Dorms
FEB 18/2004 — Sprinklers for college and university dormitories are being considered in Illinois. A proposed bill would provide low-interest loans to both private and public colleges to install sprinklers in all on-campus student housing.

South Carolina Considers Sprinklers for Hotels
FEB 11/2004 — South Carolina Senator Verne Smith (R-Greenville) has proposed a bill that would require all hotels in South Carolina to have a sprinkler system by July 2007. The proposal is in response to a January 25 hotel fire that killed six people. The hotel did not have a sprinkler system.

Tennessee Nursing Home Legislation to be Considered
FEB 11/2004 — Tennessee State Senator Randy McNally (R-Oak Ridge) has been selected as the chairman of the committee that will review 11 bills filed in response to the fatal nursing home fires in Tennessee. In a press release, McNally stated many fire officials support fire sprinklers and smoke detectors in all nursing homes and residential care facilities, including those grandfathered in. The committee will recommend one or two bills to the Senate General Welfare, Health and Human Resources Committee. One fire official has stated that 89 nursing homes in the state have no or only partial sprinkler systems.

Fire Destroys Historical Buildings in Tuskegee, Ala.
FEB 11/2004 — One of the worst fires in the city's history hit Tuskegee, Ala. February 10 and destroyed three downtown buildings. The city's Community Action Agency, civil rights attorney Fred Gray's office, and the Tuskegee Times newspaper were all destroyed by the flames. Historical civil rights documents were stored in Gray's office and are considered irreplaceable. The buildings had no sprinkler system.

AFSA Holds "Lawyers & NFPA 25" Virtual Seminar March 18
FEB 06/2004 — AFSA will present "Lawyers & NFPA 25: How to Protect Your Company From Risks of Inspection and Testing," a 90-minute virtual seminar, on March 18, 2004 at 12:00 P.M. Eastern time. Using actual case history, this seminar discusses what contractors can do to lower the risk of successful litigation against their companies. CEUs are awarded for participating.

AFSA Seeks "Fire Sprinklers Save Lives" Award Nominations
FEB 04/2004 — In 1998 AFSA established the “Fire Sprinklers Save Lives” Award to recognize individuals or organizations outside of the fire sprinkler industry that do something to enhance education and awareness of automatic fire sprinklers. This award provides an opportunity for AFSA to honor those who recognize the importance of our life-saving industry and who are also willing to promote the use of fire sprinkler technology. At the same time, this award provides an opportunity for AFSA to gain public awareness for our industry.
The award is not limited in number per year, nor are recipients selected at any certain time of the year. AFSA’s Public Education & Awareness Committee considers nominees whenever they are submitted, at any of its three meetings per year.
To nominate someone from your area, please send the name and contact information of the person or organization, including a brief description of why they are being nominated for the award to:
AFSA Public Education & Awareness Committee; Attn: Janet Knowles; 9696 Skillman, Suite 300; Dallas, TX 75243.

Compton Brings Three Decades of Fire Safety Experience to Home Safety Council Leadership
FEB 04/2004 — The Home Safety Council has announced the appointment of fire safety veteran Dennis Compton to its board of directors. The appointment, a move to continue building on the Council's top safety industry leadership team, will allow the Home Safety Council to tap Compton's 32 years of experience in the areas of fire and life safety services.
Compton was recognized by AFSA as its Fire Sprinkler Advocate of 2002. During the past three decades, Compton has been Assistant Fire Chief of the Phoenix, Ariz. fire department and most recently served as the Chief of the fire department in Mesa, Ariz. During his career, Compton has been very involved with a host of fire service and safety organizations in both an executive capacity and as an industry expert. His experience includes positions with the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).

The Home Safety Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated solely to the prevention of and education about home injuries. Visit their website for more information on the Home Safety Council's mission and educational programs.

UL Supports Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, HR 1824
MAR 31/2004 — Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has conveyed its strong support for the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act (HR 1824). UL's Executive Vice President for External Affairs and Public Safety Don Mader sent letters to the Ways and Means Committee members who have not yet endorsed the legislation, urging them to join the bill cosponsors to "help prevent the needless loss of life and property." UL also contacted their constituent representatives.
See a copy of the letter and a list of the representatives contacted, [UL letter, pdf]. [More info on HR1824 & S. 1566]

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Gains Additional Sponsors
MAR 30/2004 — HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, has gained an additional eight new cosponsors in the U. S. House of Representatives during the past month. Joining the growing ranks of House Members demonstrating their commitment to effective fire safety are: Rep Tammy Baldwin [WI-2] , Rep Lincoln Davis [TN-4] , Rep Mark Green [WI-8] , Rep Barbara Lee [CA-9] , Rep Zoe Lofgren [CA-16] , Rep Jim Matheson [UT-2] , Rep Deborah Pryce [OH-15] , Rep Paul Ryan [WI-1]. If one of these new sponsors represents the area in which you live or work, be sure to drop them a note thanking them for their advocacy and interest in life safety. There are now 118 sponsors and cosponsors of HR 1824. See the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act webpage for the latest info.

Week-long Seminar Series Presented in Sante Fe, NM, May 3-7
MAR 30/2004 — AFSA's New Mexico Chapter and the New Mexico Fire Marshals Association present a week-long seminar series in Santa Fe, New Mexico, May 3-7, 2004. Everyone's invited to attend this week of training on the following topics: NFPA 13 (2002 Ed.), Plan Review, and NFPA 25 (2002 Ed.). AFSA President, Steve Muncy, will conclude the week of training with a presentation Friday afternoon. Don't miss this opportunity to receive Continuing Education Units and NICET-required CPDs.

ABC Addresses Steel Prices
MAR 24/2004 — Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has issued an advisory offering ideas contractors can use to protect their businesses from the skyrocketing cost of construction materials and supplies made from steel. Visit ABC's website to download a PDF of their Steel Advisory.

Sprinklers Save Apartments; City Council Wants Sprinkler Ordinance
MAR 24/2004 — According to The Barre Montpelier Times Argus newspaper, sprinklers extinguished a fire at the Pioneer Apartments and saved a man's life in Montpelier, Vt. Fire Chief Norm Lewis credited the sprinkler system and said this incident was a prime example of its value. Lewis championed a successful effort to adopt a city ordinance requiring all new construction in the city to have sprinkler systems. The apartments house elderly and disabled residents. Sprinklers were installed there in 2002.
Via email correspondence with Lewis: "The Montpelier City Council desires to enact and enforce an ordinance imposing reasonable and uniform fire suppression standards, applicable to all classes of property within the City of Montpelier," he states. "In addition to the Vermont Building and Fire Code all new construction, including additions including One-and Two Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, shall be protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with section 7-7 of the Life Safety Code."

Matteson Village, Ill. Passes Residential Sprinkler Ordinance
MAR 17/2004 — The Matteson Village Board has passed an ordinance requiring installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems in all new construction homes. The ordinance requires all new, single-family homes and townhouses to have home fire sprinklers installed according to NFPA 13D. Matteson is the 15th municipality in the state with the residential requirement, and the first community in the south suburbs to pass this ordinance.
Other municipalities that require residential fire sprinklers include Barrington, Berkeley, Clarendon Hills, Glen Ellyn, Hoffman Estates, LaGrange Park, Lake Barrington, Long Grove, Mount Prospect, Park Ridge, Round Lake Beach, Streamwood, West Dundee and Wheeling. Several other communities are also progressing toward this goal.
Educational material from the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC), funded in part by AFSA, was used to educate the elected officials in almost all the towns that have passed residential ordinances.

Greater Bay Area Chapter and AFSA Present 2-Day Seminar April 8-9, 2004
MAR 11/2004 — The Greater Bay Area Chapter and AFSA present a 2-day seminar series on NFPA 13 (2002 Ed.) with a special Q&A session on NFPA 5000 (2003 Ed.) included. The seminars will be held April 8-9, 2004, at the Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton, CA.

Tennessee Nursing Home Safety Proposal Heads to Senate
MAR 10/2004 — The Tennessee state House of Representatives passed a nursing home safety bill that would require nursing homes to tell prospective residents whether their facilities have sprinkler systems. The bill now heads to the Senate, where a confirmation of the House's changes is required. The Senate passed a different version of the bill. Fifty-three of the state's 343 licensed nursing homes lack complete sprinkler systems, according to the state Department of Health.
Separate legislation in the House Health Committee would set timetables for nursing homes to complete and submit their plans for retrofitting their facilities' with sprinkler systems and smoke detectors.
[More info]

Fire Encourages Couple to Install Sprinklers
MAR 03/2004 — A devastating residential fire in Hinsdale, Ill. has convinced a couple to install residential sprinklers in the home they are building in the suburb of Chicago. In January a fire destroyed a three-story home worth nearly $3 million. The couple, Desmond and Yvonne Martello, had thought of installing sprinklers early on but dismissed the idea. Within hours of driving by the aftermath of the blaze, the Martellos were calling their contractor. Their home will be the third in the village protected by a residential sprinkler system. [Read the entire article]

FEMA Website Provides List of Hotels With Sprinklers
MAR 03/2004 — The federal government requires all its employees and conferences to use hotels with smoke detectors, and if hotels are four stories or more, sprinklers. When searching for a hotel you can access FEMA's website to find a hotel protected by an automatic sprinkler system. [Visit FEMA Site]
The site lets you search by property types, property names, city and/or state and will list each hotel and if it is protected by sprinklers.

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Sponsors List Hits 125!
APR 26/2004 — The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, HR 1824, has reached a new milestone by achieving 125 sponsors. Joining the growing ranks of House Members demonstrating their commitment to effective fire safety are: Rep Ken Calvert [CA-44], Rep Jo Ann Emerson [MO-8], Rep Bob Etheridge [NC-2], Rep Bob Filner [CA-51], Rep Fortney Pete Stark [CA-13]. If one of these new sponsors represents the area in which you live or work, be sure to drop them a note thanking them for their advocacy and interest in life safety. See the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act webpage for the latest info.

AFSA 2004 Convention Set for Palm Desert, Calif.
APR 26/2004 — AFSA 2004: Solutions for Success is the theme for AFSA's 23rd Annual Convention & Exhibition, set for September 11-15, 2004 at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa Hotel in Palm Desert, Calif. Visit the Convention Section for seminars, exhibits, and apprentice competition details.

Exciting Change in AFSA-Endorsed General Liability Coverage
APR 21/2004 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has announced that, effective immediately, the AFSA-endorsed insurance program for contractor’s General Liability (G/L) and Umbrella coverage is continuing to be offered through RISC, Inc. with an insurance carrier rated A++15. The new G/L and Umbrella program offers similar coverages as the CNA program had offered. RISC, Inc. is able to write this program nationwide except for Hawaii, Delaware, Cook County Illinois, and the five boroughs of New York: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Richmond (Staten Island). As you are aware, many insurance carriers have placed either limitations or exclusions on residential contractors. Our new carrier will offer new options on a state-by-state basis which will allow this program to continue and grow for the future. The fire sprinkler contractors that work on NFPA 13D or 13R projects will be able to purchase quality insurance. Be sure to have your agent contact RISC, Inc. for your state specific qualifications.
For more information on the AFSA-endorsed General Liability insurance through AIG or the other AFSA-endorsed business insurance lines through CNA, contact Bob Leonhart at RISC, Inc., 1-800-725-7472 or Lloyd Ivy at AFSA 214-349-5965, ext 120. [More Info]

AFSA Presents Seminar on NFPA 20
APR 12/2004 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association proudly presents a 90-minute virtual seminar: NFPA 20 Update, June, 3, 2004; 12:00 pm Eastern Time, 11:00 am Central Time, 10:00 am Mountain Time, 9:00 am Pacific Time. This seminar will provide an update of the new requirements in the 2003 edition of NFPA 20. The seminar will provide an overview of the major technical changes with a focus on the new provisions for variable speed drivers and the effect they will have on pump selection and sizing.Question and answer sessions will address the presented materials as well as general audience questions relating to fire pumps and NFPA 20. Dana Haagensen with NFPA will present this seminar.

Illinois Bill Proposed to Put Sprinklers in Dorms
APR 12/2004 — According to an article on Pantagraph.com, a proposal approved by the Illinois House would require all Illinois colleges and universities to install sprinklers in all residence halls by 2013. The state would set up a low-interest revolving loan fund to help the institutions pay for the retrofit. The article reported that an opponent of the bill, a state representative who is also a firefighter, said that sprinklers would not save lives in these buildings because "fires must reach 600 degrees to trigger the sprinklers" and "anyone or anything in that room would be dead by the time the sprinkler went off." The legislation is House Bill 4361. It now moves to the Senate.

Monterey Calif. Sprinkler Law
APR 12/2004 — A new law in Monterey, Calif., will require all new homes or those undergoing a major remodel to install fire sprinklers. The law also affects commercial construction. To read the entire article, visit KSBW.

HR 1824 Endorsement List Continues to Grow

APR 8/2004 — More organizations have now joined the growing list of organizations endorsing HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. As of early April, the following organizations have given their endorsement to the legislation:

Congressional Fire Services Institute Natl Advisory Com. (Includes all major national fire service organizations)
American Fire Sprinkler Association
National Fire Sprinkler Association
Society of Fire Protection Engineers
American Insurance Association
Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America
Associated General Contractors of America
Lightning Safety Alliance
American Society of Safety Engineers
American Health Care Association
Underwriters Laboratories

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Endorses HR 1824
MAY 27/2004 — In a letter to members of Congress, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has endorsed the adoption of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, HR 1824. Writing for ABC, Vice President for Government Affairs William Spencer says "Fire sprinkler systems are an essential and effective tool in fighting fires, protecting property and saving lives. H.R. 1824 provides important incentives for property owners to install automatic fire sprinkler systems. This bill corrects current disincentives for implementing necessary building safety improvements due to an extremely low rate of return on investment."

Lawsuits Filed in S.C. Hotel Fire
MAY 26/2004 — The eighth lawsuit against the Greenville, S.C. Comfort Inn has been filed by a woman whose daughter and grandson died in the fire. Among other things, the suit alleges the hotel failed to provide sprinklers and that they advertised they did have sprinkler protection.
The hotel did not have an automatic sprinkler system, as one was not required when it was built. Six people died and 12 were injured in the fire. [Read More]

Early Bird Deadline Extended for Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School
MAY 26/2004 — AFSA has extended the Early Bird discount for the June 21 - July 2 Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School. The $200 discount can still be applied within 30 days of the class while space is still available. With the discount, AFSA members can receive 2 weeks of intense sprinkler design instruction for only $900 (Non-Members price is $1300). This excellent training opportunity is designed to make those with little or no design knowledge productive immediately upon returning to work.

Two-Day Seminar in Overland Park, Kansas
MAY 14/2004 — AFSA's Greater Kansas City Area Chapter and the Overland Park Fire Department Present a Two-Day Seminar Series in Overland Park, Kansas. Storage Occupancies will be presented June 23 and NFPA 25 will be presented June 24 at the Overland Park Fire Department Training Facility.

Illinois Passes Legislation Requiring Sprinklers in Dormitories
MAY 14/2004 — According to Campus Firewatch, the Illinois Senate and House have both passed legislation calling for the mandatory installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all existing and new dormitories by the year 2013. This bill now moves to the Governor's desk for signature. A revolving fund to be administered by the Illinois Finance Authority and the State Fire Marshal shall be established that will provide low-interest loans to institutions. Money for the fund will have to be appropriated by the state legislature.

Lawmakers Propose Warning Sign Instead of Retrofit
MAY 13/2004 — According to The Greenville News, Greenville, S.C., lawmakers have killed a proposal to retrofit hotels and motels with automatic fire sprinklers. Instead, lawmakers passed a bill requiring non-protected hotels and motels to post a sign that states its facility isn't required to have sprinklers.
The proposal to retrofit older hotels and motels came from Senator Verne Smith, after a January fire at the Greenville Comfort Inn killed six people and injured a dozen others. Smith had proposed all hotels and motels be retrofitted by July 2007. Smith met opposition in Charleston when a senator said the bill could put city historic lodgings out of business. [more info]

Convention Brochure Now Available to Download
MAY 13/2004 — Tthe brochure for AFSA's 23rd Annual Convention & Exhibition is now available for download.
The brochure contains all information on the convention, to be held in Palm Desert, Calif., September 11-15, 2004. The early bird registration deadline for this year's convention is June 18, 2004. You can also download registration forms at the convention website.

Rutgers University Finishes Installing Sprinklers In Dorms
MAY 05/2004 — According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J. has installed fire sprinklers in its dorms under budget and several months before the state's deadline. New Jersey law mandated sprinklers in all dormitories four years ago, after a deadly blaze at Seton Hall University. Residential colleges and boarding schools have until July 31, 2004 to comply with the law. [more info]

Tennessee Passes Legislation for Sprinklers in Elderly Facilities
MAY 05/2004 — According to WKRN News, Nashville, Tenn., the state has passed legislation requiring sprinklers and smoke alarms in retirement homes and assisted living facilities. (A bill passed earlier this year requires both in nursing homes.) The legislation came about after two deadly fires: one in a Nashville nursing home and a second in a Maryville retirement home.
Facilities without a complete sprinkler system have 90 days to install electronically operated smoke detectors with battery backup power and 12-18 months to install full sprinkler systems. [more info]

AFSA 2004 Convention Seminars Announced
MAY 05/2004 — AFSA 2004: Solutions for Success, AFSA's 23rd Annual Convention & Exhibition, promises to be a time of information, fun and excitement! Set for September 11-15, 2004 at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa Hotel in Palm Desert, Calif., attendees will enjoy informative seminars, an exceptional exhibit, and festive evening events.
The early bird registration deadline for this year's convention is June 18, 2004. For details call Marlene Garrett, AFSA's Educational Services & Meeting Director at (214) 349-5965 x. 188. [See Seminar descriptions]

Tennessee Law Requires Sprinklers in Assisted Living Facilities
JUN 17/2004 — According to The Daily Times, Maryville, Tenn., Governor Phil Bredesen will sign a law today requiring sprinklers in assisted living facilities and homes for the aged. The legislation will become law on July 1. Smoke detectors and sprinklers will be required for one-story buildings with 12 or more beds and any buildings two-stories and above. [more info]

TIME'S RUNNING OUT!
JUN 17/2004 — With the upcoming June/July Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School already sold out, there are only 3 sessions left in 2004. The current rates are also only available until the end of June! Register now before space runs out and prices are increased!"

AFSA & OSU Offer Fire Sprinkler Inspection Program
JUN 16/2004 — The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) and Oklahoma State University (OSU) are offering its Fire Sprinkler Inspection Training & Certification (FSITC) program July 15-17, 2004 in Stillwater. As one of the top training providers in the field of fire protection, OSU is constantly striving to provide training programs that advance professionals in the industry. Sprinkler inspection, testing & maintenance is quickly becoming the rule, not the exception and OSU is proud to offer the FSITC program to professionals in the field. 
The course fee is $795 per person (includes airport shuttle from Oklahoma City) or $1100 per person (includes airport shuttle and hotel). There is also a discounted group rate. [more info]

ABC & SFPE Support H.R. 1824, Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
JUN 16/2004 — With co-sponsors now reaching 133, H.R. 1824 is gaining more momentum and support. Recently, the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) sent letters in support of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act. If your representative is a co-sponsor, write a letter of thanks. If your representative isn't a co-sponsor, write a letter asking why! [View List of Cosponsors]

Bill to Retrofit Illinois Residence Halls Considered
JUN 09/2004 — According to Campus Firewatch, a bill in Illinois to require all residence halls to retrofit with sprinklers has passed both Houses. The bill, HB 4361 Fire Sprinkler Dorm Act, now moves on to the Governor's desk for his signature. The sprinklers would have to be installed by 2013. Introduced by Rep. Dan Burke of Springfield, the bill establishes a fire sprinkler dorm revolving loan program to provide low-interest loans to institutions installing sprinklers.

Clemson University Protects Student Housing
JUN 09/2004 — According to the Herald Tribune, Clemson University will pay to install sprinklers in student housing until a $5.3 million dollar bond is available next spring. [Read More]

S.C. Hotel Sign Fails to Pass
JUN 09/2004 — According to The WYFF Channel 4, Greenville, the state legislature failed to pass a law requiring hotels without sprinklers to post signs stating such. This proposal was a last effort after a bill requiring hotels to retrofit with sprinklers failed. The representative who chaired the committee that considered the hotel signage bill said he thought it was "too harsh for hotel owners." [Read More]

Nursing Facility Fire Safety Act of 2004 Introduced
JUL 28/2004 — New federal legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. John Larson (D-CT), the Nursing Facility Fire Safety Act of 2004, will, if enacted by Congress, ensure every nursing home in America is equipped or retrofitted with automatic fire sprinkler systems within five years.
According to American Health Care Association (AHCA), which has announced its endorsement of the legislation, the Nursing Facility Fire Safety Act of 2004:
- Creates a funding stream to pay for sprinkling through Medicaid and Medicare.
- Sets a full sprinkling deadline within five years of enactment before facilities could be found out of compliance.
- Permits providers to amortize over five years the cost of retrofitting existing facilities and those facilities that have proceeded with retrofits since September, 2003-the date when CMS adopted the requirement that all newly constructed facilities be sprinkled.
This bill was introduced within days of a report from the Government Accounting Office that voiced harsh criticism of the level of protection provided to nursing home occupants. It also incorporates some provisions similar to HR 1824 regarding the amortization of installation costs over a period of five years. During the past six months, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has provided information to several Congressional representatives and committees to address the lack of fire sprinkler protection in nursing homes.
AFSA President Steve Muncy commented that recent nursing home fires have demonstrated the necessity of getting fire sprinklers into all nursing homes.
" Several members of Congress have been searching for an effective approach to this problem for months, and Rep. Larson has introduced legislation that addresses the problem head-on. We look forward to working with him to get this legislation enacted into law," he said.
The new legislation was introduced the day before the Congressional recess and has not yet been assigned to a House committee. As additional information comes available, AFSA will update members through email, SprinklerNEWS, and postings on this site.

AFSA Extends the Regular Registration Deadline to Friday August 6
JUL 23/2004 — AFSA extends the regular registration deadline for the 23rd Annual Convention & Exhibition to be held in Palm Desert, CA September 11-15. You can register by Friday August 6 to get the regular registration rate. Prices will increase if you wait to register on-site. Register today before time gets away from you.

Sprinkler Ordinance Debated in Wheeling, Illinois
JUL 21/2004 — Several council members in the village of Wheeling, Ill. are asking to rescind a strict residential sprinkler ordinance established five years ago. Fire officials and the council president are against the proposal. Those suggesting the rollback include a realtor and commercial property owners who claim the residential ordinance is "too costly and unnecessary." [read more]

AFSA Presents "Deluge Systems and Pre-Action Systems" Seminar
JUL 09/2004 — AFSA will present the 90-minute virtual seminar "Deluge Systems and Pre-Action Systems" July 29, 2004 at 12:00 pm Eastern. This seminar begins with a brief introduction of the systems, as well as an explanation of the different release systems. It will then focus on application, installation and design issues related to the NFPA criteria, component selection, release systems and facility characteristics.
Randy Nelson, president of VFS Fire Protection Services, Anaheim, Calif. and Martin Workman, product manager of special hazards for The Viking Corporation are the speakers. This seminar earns participants .15 CEUs and 1.5 CPDs.

California Considers Sprinkler Law for Residential Care Homes
JUL 01/2004 — According to the San Diego Union Tribune online, the state of California requires sprinklers in pet stores but not in residential care homes. That may be changing as legislation has cleared the Senate Health Committee to require such protection. Opponents included some owners of residential care homes and watchdogs for the disabled.
AB 2065 would require residential care homes that serve six or fewer people to install sprinklers by 2010. Larger convalescent hospitals already must have sprinkler systems. [more info]

Alabama Requires Sprinklers in All Nursing Homes
JUL 01/2004 — According to the Montgomery Advertiser online, the state of Alabama has amended its nursing home rules to require all nursing homes to have sprinkler systems throughout each building. The statewide rule is stricter than NFPA's requirement, which allows older nursing homes to not fully sprinkler in some cases.
Alabama follows Tennessee and Connecticut in requiring full sprinkler systems in nursing homes. Alabama is the only state of the three to take this step before a deadly fire occurs. [more details]

75 Percent of Los Angeles' Apartment Hi-Rises Without Sprinklers
AUG 18/2004 — According to the LA Times, a high-rise apartment building fire in Koreatown in Los Angeles August 18 has left one person critically injured. Sprinklers were not required in the building. More than 100 high-rises in the area do not have sprinklers because of a gap in the fire safety law, which only requires apartment buildings and office towers to have sprinklers if they were built before 1943 and after 1974. [Read More, free registration required]

Group Home Fire Kills Three
AUG 18/2004 — According to CentreDaily.com, an August 14 group home fire in Elysburg, Pa. has killed three of its residents. Smoking caused the blaze, which demolished the home and caused relocation of its mentally disabled and elderly people. Sprinklers were not required to be installed in the home. [Read More]

City Offers Help to Install Sprinklers
AUG 18/2004 — According to The Providence Journal online, Newport, Rhode Island city officials are educating small business about financial assistance available to those needing to comply with stricter fire codes. Low-interest loans are available for emergency exits, signage, alarm and/or sprinkler systems. [Read More]

Spring Hill, Tenn. Fire Officials to Showcase Residential Sprinklers
AUG 18/2004 — According to the Williamson County Review Appeal, the Spring Hill, Tenn. fire department plans to use part of a federal grant to install and showcase residential sprinkler systems. The grant was given to help fund public safety and education. David Bill, fire chief, said the sprinklered homes will educate the public, realtors and developers. [Read More]

Chicago Suburb Considers Sprinkler Law
AUG 18/2004 — According to the Daily Herald, the Rolling Meadows, Ill. city council is considering requiring sprinklers in all high-rise office buildings and smoke detector systems in common areas of multi-unit buildings and religious buildings. The proposed law also includes a requirement for sprinklers in new homes over 4,000 sq. ft. The city mayor supports the measure. [Read More]

Massachusetts Passes Law Requiring Sprinklers in Nightclubs
AUG 18/2004 — According to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette Online, Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has signed a fire safety bill requiring clubs with occupancies of 100 people or more to install sprinklers within three years. Clubs that hold less than 100 people may be forced to install sprinklers if they violate occupancy limits twice within one year. To read more about the law visit
http://www.telegram.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20040817/APN/408170940

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Sponsors Increases to 137
AUG 5/2004 — As of August 5th, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, HR 1824, has reached a new milestone by achieving 137 sponsors, with the addition of eleven additional sponsors. This number means that almost one-third of the House membership has signed on to co-sponsor this legislation. Joining the growing ranks of House Members demonstrating their commitment to effective fire safety are: Rep Scott McInnis [CO-3], Rep Martin T. Meehan [MA-5], Rep Mike McIntyre [NC-7], Rep Jerry Weller [IL-11], Rep Max Sandlin [TX-1] , Rep F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. [WI-5], Rep George Miller [CA-7], Rep James P. Moran [VA-8], Rep Peter Deutsch [FL-20], Rep Philip M. Crane [IL-8], Rep Lucille Roybal-Allard [CA-34], and Rep Linda T.S anchez [CA-39]. If one of these new sponsors represents the area in which you live or work, be sure to drop them a note thanking them for their advocacy and interest in life safety. See the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act webpage for the latest info.

September

Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2004 Introduced into U. S. Senate (S.2860)
SEP 29/2004 - U.S. Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA), Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, today introduced the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2004 (S. 2860), which significantly improves the tax incentive for the installation of automatic fire suppression systems. Senator John D. Rockefeller IV (D-WV) is an original cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation. The act will amend the tax code to classify automatic fire sprinkler systems as 5-year property for purposes of tax depreciation as opposed to the current 27.5 or 39-year period for installations in residential rental and non-residential real property. Most property owners are unable to upgrade fire countermeasures in buildings built prior to safety codes due to the financial burden of retrofitting. Furthermore, many state and local governments lack any requirements to include automatic sprinklers. This act offers incentives for the voluntary installation and retrofitting of existing buildings with automated sprinkler systems.
In 2001, fire was the cause of almost $9 billion in direct property damage. Sprinklers have been reported to reduce property damage by forty-three to seventy percent in educational, residential, commercial, industrial and manufacturing buildings. Replacing outdated sprinkler systems can save the lives of countless people, protect our firefighters, and reduce the costs from property damage,” said Santorum. Santorum has garnered support for this legislation from several organizations including the American Fire Sprinkler Association, American Insurance Association, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Campus Firewatch, Congressional Fire Services Institute, Independent Insurance, Agents & Brokers of America, International Association of Arson Investigators, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Fire Service Training Association, National Fire Protection Association, National Fire Sprinkler Association, National Volunteer Fire Council, Society of Fire Protection Engineers, and Mechanical Contractors Association of America.

Congressman Weldon Testifies On Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
SEP 23/2004 - On Thursday, September 23, 2004, Congressman Curt Weldon (R-PA), author of HR 1824, The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003, testified before the Committee On Ways And Means, Subcommittee On Select Revenue Measures, Chaired by Congressman Jim McCrery (R-LA) regarding the merits of the bill that he and Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) introduced in April of 2003 shortly after a night club fire in Rhode Island left over 100 patrons dead. Mr. Weldon provided an overview of the legislation and it’s intent to accelerate cost recovery by reducing the depreciation schedule of fire sprinklers and in doing so praised the exemplary historical record of fire sprinklers while stressing the need to retrofit fire sprinklers in various critical occupancies such as nursing homes, nightclubs, high-rise buildings and student housing. In addition to his oral testimony, Mr. Weldon’s office will be submitting written testimony to the subcommittee. Of the nine-subcommittee members who were in attendance, five are presently cosponsors of HR 1824. They include, Ranking Member Congressman Michael McNulty (D-NY), Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs-Jones (D-OH), Congressman Max Sandlin (D-TX), Congressman Mark Foley (R-FL) and Congressman Paul Ryan (R-WI). During the question period after Mr. Weldon’s presentation Congressman McNulty, the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee and Congresswoman Tubbs-Jones reiterated their support of the bill.

Des Plaines, Ill. Wants Residential Sprinklers
SEP 09/2004 — According to The Daily Herald, the aldermen of Des Plaines, Ill. (a suburb of Chicago) have voted unanimously for a new law requiring residential sprinklers in new homes larger than 1,000 sq. ft. Final approval is expected in October.

AFSA Publishes Pressure Regulating Valves Testing Form
SEP 08/2004 — AFSA has added the Report of Testing of Pressure Regulating Valves to its expanding line of Report of Testing and Inspection Forms. Designed to assist in the performance and recording of test results for various types of Pressure Regulating Valves, AFSA Form 115A is a must-have for those who routinely install or service high-rise building systems. It is also helpful with some fire pump set-ups. The one-page form offers a thorough checklist of valve information, test data and evaluation. Download the PDF form for free or Purchase the three-part NCR pad of 25 sets at $10 per pad for AFSA members, $25 per pad for non-members.

Redding, Calif. Fire Official Advocates Sprinklers
SEP 01/2004 — According to Redding.com, Redding, Calif. Fire Marshal Bruce Becker is championing fire sprinklers for apartment residents. The vast majority of the city's apartments were built before 2002, when the state code began requiring sprinklers in buildings with five or more units. Three apartment fires in the last year have caused millions in damages and placed numerous people out of their homes.

Article Shows Benefits of Residential Sprinklers
SEP 01/2004 — An excellent article on residential fire sprinklers appeared in The Washington Post on April 28, 2005. Beginning with a successful residential activation, the article includes comments from fire officials advocating sprinkler protection for homes, statistics and installation information. [read more]

Good Morning America Showcases Residential Sprinklers
OCT 29/2004 — Residential fire sprinklers were showcased on the October 26 edition of ABC's Good Morning America during a segment on home safety for the winter months. Home Improvement Editor Ron Hazelton showed video footage comparing fires in a sprinklered house and in a non-sprinklered house and then featured a live burn in a fire sprinkler demonstration trailer in Times Square. You can read about safety tips for the winter by accessing this link: [read more] Residential sprinklers are featured on page 3 of the news story.

Don't Miss the OSU/AFSA Inspection School December 2-4, 2004
OCT 29/2004 — Fire Sprinkler Inspection, Training, and Certification class scheduled for December 2-4 at Oklahoma State University. This program is designed for fire sprinkler contractors and covers the NFPA 13 and NFPA 25 requirements of proper inspection, testing, and maintenance of automatic fire sprinkler systems.

AFSA Offers Sample Inspection Contract
OCT 28/2004 — AFSA's sample inspection contract is a new form for contractors to use as a template when creating a contract to be given to building owners, managers or occupants. It can be used to outline an agreement of test frequency of various systems installed. It also outlines what building owners, etc. should inspect and when they should inspect them. The sample inspection contract (item # AFSA-125) is available from the Documents Center as Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF File. [Document Center]
AFSA distributes this form as a convenience to its members; however, AFSA does not warrant that the form provides all desirable legal protections or that it will fit all inspection situations. Consultation with a competent attorney is recommended in using or revising this form for any specific agreement.

Dear Abby Promotes Residential Sprinklers
OCT 06/2004 — According to DallasNews.com, Dear Abby's October 1, 2004 message promotes automatic fire sprinklers, in addition to working smoke alarms and smoke detectors. In her column, she states: "... And for the 'ultimate' in fire protection, nothing compares to automatic fire sprinkler systems, which put water directly onto the flames in the early stages of a fire, slowing the spread of deadly smoke and heat...." [read more]

AFSA Convention Photos Online
OCT 06/2004 — Relive the memories of AFSA's 23rd Annual Convention & Exhibition or see the fun you missed by viewing photos from this year's event, held in Palm Desert, Calif. September 11-14. Photos from the apprentice competition, seminars, and evening events are now online. The fire sprinkler industry’s largest and most comprehensive exhibition in North America drew approximately 950 attendees, with representatives from 133 contractor companies. AFSA’s 2004 Exhibition featured 98 manufacturer and supplier companies in 128 booths, offering industry professionals the latest in fire sprinkler advances.

Justin Kopacz with H.F.P. Sprinkler of South Hadley, Westfield, Mass. won AFSA's National Apprentice Competition, held during the convention. Joe Goodman with Sierra Sprinkler Services, Inc. in Galt, Calif. placed second and Ross Low with Fire Tech Systems, Inc. in Shreveport, La. placed third. View Photos »

November

2005 Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Date Announced!
NOV 10/2004 — Register your new or beginner designer early for one of the 6 classes AFSA will hold in 2005. Each 2004 class sold out well in advance!

Scottsdale Touts Sprinklers' Safety Record
NOV 04/2004 — According to the East Valley Tribune, the Scottsdale, Ariz. Rural/Metro Fire Department reports that sprinklers have saved 24 lives and $5 million in damages in the past five months. Fire officials credit the city's 1986 ordinance, requiring sprinklers in all new construction. [read more]

Sprinklers Squelch Arsonists
NOV 04/2004 — According to the Plymouth, Minn. Sun Sailor, arsonists' efforts to set two fast food restaurants ablaze have been foiled by automatic sprinkler systems. In the last two weeks a Wendy's and McDonald's restaurant have been targeted. Both times the sprinklers extinguished the flames. [read more]

December

Fatal Hotel Blaze in San Diego
DEC 23/2004 — According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, a careless smoker started a fire at the Mason Hotel in San Diego, resulting in one death and 14 injuries. The residential hotel was not required to have fire sprinklers. Damage was estimated at $1.5 million. [Read More]

Avondale, Ariz. to Consider Sprinkler Ordinance
DEC 23/2004 — According to the Arizona Republic, Avondale, Ariz. is asking for the public's input on a proposed fire code, which would include a requirement for sprinklers in new home construction. Two meetings will be held next month. [More Info]

Chicago Adopts High-Rise Ordinance
DEC 16/2004 — Chicago Aldermen have voted unanimously to require fire sprinklers in older commercial high-rises. The ordinance was drafted after six people died during a blaze last year in the downtown Cook County Administration Building. It requires sprinklers in commercial high-rises built before 1975, the year the sprinklers became mandatory.

Early Bird Deadline Extended!
DEC 10/2004 — The early bird deadline has been extended for the January 10-21 Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School. There are just a few spots left, so call AFSA now to get a registration form!

37 Injured in Chicago High-Rise Fire: No Deaths Reported
DEC 07/2004 — According to an Associated Press Report, a stubborn fire raged for 5 1/2 hours on the 29th floor of a historic downtown skyscraper, shooting flames from windows and sending at least 37 people to hospitals, most of them firefighters who suffered smoke inhalation. Some injuries were serious, but no deaths were reported. There were no sprinklers on the 29th floor.
More than 300 firefighters battled the blaze Monday night.
Of the 37 people injured, 22 were firefighters in moderate to serious condition with most being treated for smoke inhalation or minor injuries, officials said.
The fire comes 14 months after a 35-story county building in downtown Chicago caught fire, killing six people. A state-funded investigation concluded that the deaths could have been prevented if there had been sprinklers and unlocked stairwells, and if firefighters had searched for victims sooner and kept out smoke and heat. [Read entire story]

Greenville, S.C. Hotel To Install Sprinklers
DEC 01/2004 — According to TheCarolinaChannel.com, sprinklers will be installed in the Congaree Road Comfort Inn in Greenville, S.C., the site of a fire earlier this year that killed six people. The hotel, which has been closed since the fire, did not have sprinklers as it was built before codes required the systems. [Read more]

Sprinklers Extinguish Hotel Blaze
DEC 01/2004 — According to the Rockdale Citizen, a sprinkler system installed at the Intown Suites in Rockdale County, Ga. did its job and extinguished a fire November 29. Rockdale County Deputy Chief Mike Lee told reporters that sprinkler system "also had done its job on several other occasions when firefighters had been called to the hotel." Damages were minimal and no injuries were reported. [Read more]

Sprinklers Save Two Schools
DEC 01/2004 — According to The Baltimore Sun, sprinklers have saved two Baltimore, Md. area schools from arson. Fires were set at Edmonson-Westside High School and Dr. Samuel L. Banks High School. Damages were minor and no injuries were reported. [Read more]