Court Strikes Down Pennsylvania Builders Association’s Bid to Keep Fire Sprinkler Systems Out of Homes
NFSA applauds the decision made by the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania on August 25, 2010, that determines the process used to adopt the 2009 edition of the International Residential Code (IRC), including the residential fire sprinkler requirement, was constitutional. Read the full story
Nominations Sought for Leadership in Public Safety and Golden Sprinkler Awards
Created in 2009, the Leadership in Public Safety Award has been given annually to acknowledge individuals who have worked toward the protection of the public from the threat of fire through support of the fire sprinkler concept. Nominations are also being accepted to identify a recipient for the 2011 Golden Sprinkler Award. This person can be anyone who has made a significant contribution to the fire sprinkler industry during the course of his or her career – not limited to those presently active in the sprinkler industry. Please take a moment to make your nomination for both awards now!
Kindly return your nominations to Diana Romano via e-mail at romano@nfsa.org or via fax at 845 878 4215 on or before Thursday, September 30, 2010.
Click here for the nomination form
Portland Moves to Protect Public with Fire Sprinklers
Portland, Maine adopted the 2009 edition of NFPA 1 and 101 on August 16th with the one- and two-family sprinkler requirements intact. The vote was 8-0 and takes effect in 30 days from date of passage. Both codes require all new one- and two-family dwellings to have fire sprinkler systems. Portland is the largest city in the state of Maine. Westbrook and Rockland are two other Maine towns in the state that have also adopted NFPA 101 in its entirety. Congratulations to these progressive-thinking Maine cities and all who worked so hard to get the requirements passed! Click here for details.
NFPA Standards Council Bans Antifreeze Systems in New Dwelling Units
NFSA eTechAlert reports on the announcement of an NFPA Standards Council decision to issue Tentative Interim Amendments (TIAs) banning the use of antifreeze in new sprinkler systems protecting dwelling units, effective August 25th.
To view August 17’s eTechAlert
To view the full Standards Council decision
To view the guidance to NFSA member contractors contained in the July 13th (No. 184) issue of eTechAlert relative to the NFPA safety alert recommending draining of all antifreeze systems on a temporary basis:
2nd Edition of Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems Now Available
The NFSA announces the publication of the 2nd Edition of its popular textbook, Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems. This newly revised textbook has been updated to reference the 2007 and 2010 editions of NFPA 13 with more examples and student exercises and new chapters on contract issues and stocklisting. This text remains the most complete book ever written for the fire sprinkler engineering technician. Order by August 15th for special savings! Click here for details.
Homeowners’ Insurance Credit – How much are you saving?
Many of you live in homes protected by residential fire sprinklers. In an effort to determine what credits are given by insurance carriers for having fire sprinklers, we ask that you take a short survey. We’ve had many responses so far and are looking for more. NFSA is having discussions with several large insurance carriers and is seeking credits in excess of 20% for homeowners that have these protections. Please click the following link to answer this short, five question Insurance Survey.
Changes in NFSA Regional Operations
With the retirement of Dan Gengler on July 31, 2010, New York Regional Manager Dom Kasmauskas has been appointed to replace him as Associate Director of Regional Operations–North. Dom, along with Dave Bowman, who is Associate Director of Regional Operations– South, will assist Vice President of Regional Operations Buddy Dewar in the management of NFSA’s Regional Operations. Due to geographic considerations, NFSA will switch from an east/west division of responsibilities to a north/south division. Dom and Dave will divide their respective regions as follows:
Dom Kasmauskas: New England, New York, Mid-Atlantic, Great Lakes, Illinois/North Central, Great Plains and Pacific Northwest
Dave Bowman: Southeast, Tennessee, Florida, Central, South Central, Southwest and West.
Also, Illinois Regional Manager Bob Kleinheinz will take over the North Central Region. His region will now be known as Illinois/North Central.
Contact information is as follows:
Dom Kasmauskas: kasmauskas@nfsa.org,, tel: 914.414.3337
Dave Bowman: bowman@nfsa.org, tel: 845.519.7648
Many thanks from the NFSA staff to Dan for all his years of service and dedication to the fire sprinkler industry.
Illinois Governor Signs Bill into Law Requiring Fraternity And Sorority Houses to Install Fire Sprinkler Systems
On July 27th, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed a law expanding requirements for fire sprinklers in fraternities and sororities associated with Illinois State University (ISU). The law goes into effect Jan. 1, 2011, for new construction and January 2019 for existing fraternity and sorority houses. ISU is home to more than 30 fraternities and sororities — about two-thirds of those have off-campus houses. Currently, only three of the many houses have fire sprinkler systems. We applaud Governor Quinn for signing this progressive legislation and encourage other governors to follow suit!
Karl Wiegand, NFSA’s Manager of Installation Standards, Earns E.I.T.
Karl Wiegand, NFSA’s Manager of Installation Standards, has passed the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (FE) and earned the right to be considered an Engineer in Training (E.I.T.). The designation of an E.I.T. is the second step towards becoming a Professional Engineer. The FE is a grueling eight-hour long exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge of strengths of materials, fluid flow, heat transfer, chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, thermodynamics, math, statics, and engineering economics along with many other science and engineering subjects. Karl received a passing grade on this exam upon taking it for the first time. All of us at NFSA congratulate Karl on this accomplishment!
NFPA Calls for Draining of Dwelling Antifreeze Systems
The National Fire Protection Association has issued a safety alert on the subject of antifreeze in fire sprinkler systems protecting dwelling units, and is recommending that all such antifreeze solutions be drained and replaced with water until ongoing research can confirm safe antifreeze concentrations. The alert can be found through the following link: http://www.nfpa.org/antifreeze
The NFPA alert is in reaction to a fire/explosion that took place in Truckee, California, last year. The NFPA technical committees that deal with automatic sprinkler systems, along with the NFPA’s Fire Protection Research Foundation, have been working to determine the relevant factors that contributed to this loss, and are considering the issuance of Tentative Interim Amendments (TIAs) to the sprinkler standards affecting the use of antifreeze in systems protecting dwelling units. To this point in time, all indications suggest that the potential for a combustible sprinkler spray or explosion relate to the use of antifreeze concentrations in excess of 50 percent in combination with high system operating pressures. Various editions of the NFSA eTechAlert publication have addressed this issue as it developed. The forthcoming issue for Tuesday, July 13, 2010, will address the subject in detail, with recommendations for NFSA member contractors relative to homeowner notification.
Sprinklerman Photo Contest WinnerDaniel Jaffee, 7, of Mahopac, New York is the winner of the Sprinklerman photo contest held at the Hudson Valley Renegades game in Wappinger Falls, NY on June 22. The game was well attended and, despite a downpour, the NFSA information table was bustling with activity. We’ve secured a rain date of July21, so, if you are in the area, be sure to attend!
Baltimore County, Maryland Adopts 2009 IRC
Coming on the heels of last week’s announcement that the city of Baltimore adopted fire sprinkler requirements for all new one- and two-family construction, Baltimore County, Maryland adopted the 2009 IRC with the sprinkler requirement on Tuesday evening July 6th. This makes 12 out of 23 counties and 85 municipalities in Maryland with a residential sprinkler requirement for one- and two-family dwellings. The state has had a requirement for townhouses since 1992.
Baltimore Adopts One- and Two-family Sprinkler Ordinance
Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake signed a new fire sprinkler law on June 24th. The law requires fire sprinklers in all new one- and two-family residential structures built in Baltimore after July 1, 2010. On that date, Baltimore becomes one the largest cities in the United States to require residential sprinkler systems in one-and two-family dwellings. Congratulations to all who worked so hard to get this law passed. WAY TO GO BALTIMORE!!!
NFSA 105th Seminar & Biennial Exhibition Booth Space Selling Fast!
Booth space for the NFSA Seminar & Biennial Exhibition at the Baltimore Hilton is now on sale. The Seminar & Exhibition runs from April 7 – 9, 2011 in beautiful and family-friendly Baltimore, Maryland. The revitalization of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor makes it the perfect destination for a great family mini-vacation! Join us at the 105th Seminar & Biennial Exhibition as the Industry’s best vie for the title of Top-Tech. The Top Tech Competition takes place right in the exhibition hall, drawing excited crowds to watch the event AND visit your booth. Don’t wait!
Click here to reserve your space NOW!
NFSA PAC Needs Your Help!
By supporting NFSA PAC, NFSA members can join together to help elect candidates to Congress who understand the important role automatic fire sprinkler systems play in a comprehensive public fire safety program. Follow the NFSA PAC link at right and fill out the prior approval form to allow us to solicit contributions to the PAC. Clicking on the link will also provide answers to many questions you may have about the PAC.
NFSA Wins First Place Awards for Its Efforts Supporting Residential Fire Sprinkler Requirement
NFSA received a variety of “Jersey Awards” at this year’s annual awards ceremony for the New Jersey Ad Club. The annual awards ceremony honors the best advertising and public relations work in New Jersey over the past year. The NFSA received a first-place award in the “Public Relations Public Affairs” category for its effort to reaffirm the residential fire sprinkler requirement in the 2009 IRC code in Baltimore. The NFSA NJ Chapter also received a first place award in the category of “Media Relations Special Programs” for the campaign to adopt the residential fire sprinkler requirement in New Jersey. NFSA was also awarded a certificate of participation in the “Self-Mailer” category for the NFSA Fire Sprinkler Design Technician Recruitment Mailer, which was sent to vo-tech counselors earlier this year.
Naperville Rejects Fire Sprinklers, Smoke Detectors
When an article appeared in the Tribune explaining why Naperville, Illinois rejected building requirements for fire sprinklers and interconnected hard-wired smoke alarms in remodeled homes, NFSA’s Associate Director of Public Fire Protection, Vickie Pritchett, sent a letter to the editor on behalf of the Common Voices coalition.
Read the letter
NFPA Study: Home Fires Account for 92 Percent of Structure Fire Deaths
According to a new National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) study called Home Structure Fires, home fires account for 92 percent of fire deaths that occur in structures. These fires cause an average of 2,840 civilian deaths each year. The study, which looked at fires from 2003-2007 across the U.S., concluded that, "Home fire sprinklers can also help, as the death rate per 1,000 reported home fires was 83 percent lower when wet pipe sprinkler systems were present, compared to reported home fires without automatic extinguishing equipment."
Read the full study here
NFSA Exhibits at Building Professional Institute in Texas
NFSA is part of the Exhibitors' Showcase 2010, held in conjunction with the Building Professional Institute in Arlington,
Texas, May 24-28, 2010 on the University of Texas at Arlington campus. New York Regional Manager Dom Kasmauskas is manning
the NFSA booth. The Building Professional Institute provides education and training courses for Builders, Building Designers,
Building Officials, Contractors, Municipal Inspectors, Real Estate Inspectors, Architects, Engineers, Plumbers, Fire Protection
Personnel, Electricians, Insurance Adjusters, Code Enforcement Personnel, Permit Technicians and Environmental Health & Safety Personnel.Wilmette, Illinois Passes Residential Fire Sprinkler Ordinance!
Officials from Wilmette, Illinois, passed the village's first residential fire sprinkler ordinance requiring fire sprinklers in all new homes that are being built with lightweight construction. With the passage of this ordinance, the Village of Wilmette becomes the 67th jurisdiction in Illinois to pass residential fire sprinkler legislation. Congratulations to both the village of Wilmette and all those who worked so hard to get this ordinance passed! Read full story
Relive NFSA Annual Seminar Held in Chicago Through Photo Archive
This weekend will mark one month since NFSA held its 2010 Annual Seminar in Chicago. Despite the lingering economic downturn, members from all over the country turned out in strong numbers to participant in a slate of topical workshop sessions and memorable social events. The city of Chicago even cooperated by gracing all with absolutely perfect weather. Some jogged Lake Shore Drive, others cruised the Magnificent Mile and a privileged few even saw the Cubbies win one at home. Relive the experience by following the links to photos of the entire event.
| General Session | Reception | Workshops | Banquet |
Textbook Inventory Reduction Sale! More than 50% off!
The NFSA’s textbook, Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems, is the most complete text ever written for the fire sprinkler engineering technician, and it’s on sale! While supplies last, get it for only $60 plus shipping and handling for members or $90 plus shipping and handling for non-members. This text makes an excellent self-study guide for the NICET Automatic Sprinkler Layout and Detail certification program and covers all of the work elements necessary to achieve Level 2 certification and many of the elements needed to achieve Level 3 and Level 4 certification.
Download order form here
Sprinklerman Makes Debut Appearance of the Season Sunday, May 2 at Somerset Patriots Game!
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Sprinklerman will make his debut appearance of the season as the Somerset Patriots take on the Bridgeport Bluefish at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Game time is 1:35 p.m. Gates open an hour before the game. Come cheer Sprinklerman on as he throws out the first pitch and participates in on field activities throughout the game. It’s Fire Safety Day at the stadium, a perfect occasion for Sprinklerman to strut his stuff and help to educate kids and parents alike about the life and property saving attributes of fire sprinkler systems. For further information, visit the Patriots’ website at www.somersetpatriots.com.
Fatal High-Rise Fire Calls Chicago’s Life Safety Evaluation Into Question Again
Early this morning, a one-unit fire on the 38th floor of the Park Tower high-rise condominium building in the 5400 block of North Sheridan Road in Chicago claimed the life of one individual. According to fire officials, the cause of the fatal fire is still unknown. It was found that there was no working smoke alarm and the building was not protected with a fire sprinkler system. If you see articles on websites regarding this fire, make sure to post a comment on the lack of fire sprinklers! Read more News Video
Common Voices Receives Grant for “Building Safe Homes with Fire Sprinklers” Campaign
NFSA is pleased to announce the Common Voices Coalition received notification from the 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program, Fire Prevention program, administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that their grant in the amount of $222,290.00 was funded. Common Voices will use the grant funds for delivery of a national media campaign that will raise awareness of current fire prevention strategies. These strategies will focus on the fact that fire sprinklers are a critical part of a fire protection package, which includes working smoke alarms, a family escape plan, and the installation of home fire sprinklers.
Read more
Philadelphia Inquirer Editorial Supports Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems!
As a result of ongoing outreach by NFSA’s public relations firm, R&J, to the editorial boards in Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Inquirer, wrote a very positive fire sprinkler editorial which appears in today's (April 5th) edition. The editorial includes the majority of our key messages points as well as some information about Judge Johnny Butler's decision to deny the Pennsylvania Builders Association’s request for an injunction.
Read editorial here
NIST Study Demonstrates Value of Fire Safety in Dorms
A study by the National Institute of Standards & Technology, performed as part of the U.S. Fire Administration’s initiative to improve fire safety in college housing, demonstrated that the correct combination of automatic fire sprinkler systems, smoke alarms and closed doors provided enough time and safe conditions for residents to escape safely and for firefighters to perform their job without undue hazard.
Read full story here
NFSA Contractor Member Alert
According to the EPA website, contractors working in schools, homes, day care centers, or other places where children spend time that were constructed prior to 1978 cannot disturb more than 6 sq ft of painted surfaces where lead may be present unless they are certified. Certification happens by taking a one day class in clean-up and minimizing dust that is a minimum of 8 hours with at least 2 hours of hands-on training. The classes can be taken through private contractors accredited by the EPA. Information on classes being offered is on the EPA website at www.epa.gov/lead. Enforcement begins on April 22, 2010.
NFSA Receives Invitation to Meet with Key NAHB Committee
Following what NFSA President John Viniello called a very productive meeting earlier this month with NAHB’s CEO and key staff, NFSA has received an invitation by NAHB’s Senior Officer leadership to meet with their Construction, Codes and Standards Committee. The meeting will be held in conjunction with their Spring Board meeting in Washington, D.C. during the week of April 19.
“We are very encouraged by the positive response we have received from the National Association of Home Builders,” said NFSA President John Viniello. “ We are confident that as our respective codes, technical and training staffs get together in meaningful discussion, areas of mutual benefit will be identified and addressed.”
As the relationship between the two organizations continues to evolve, NFSA will post information at the website (nfsa.org) and on its social network.
John Viniello to Receive Distinguished Service Award
NFSA is very pleased to announce that John Viniello has been selected by the Awards Committee of the Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association as this year’s recipient of their Distinguished Community Leadership Award. Each year the recognition is given to an individual who has made outstanding contributions on behalf of those in their community who experience disabilities. He will be a guest of honor at the Hudson Valley Cerebral Palsy Association’s Annual Dinner on June 12th at the Westchester Marriott in Tarrytown, New York where he will be formally presented with the award.
Read the letter
NFSA Annual Seminar Room Block Hits the Mark!
At almost 100% of contract, NFSA’s Annual Seminar scheduled to take place at the Chicago Fairmont is proving to be the place to be from April 14 to 17 this year. If you plan to attend, please take a moment to reserve your room between now and the end of the day, Friday, March 19. After this date any remaining rooms will be released but rooms may still be booked for NFSA attendees on a space and rate available basis. NFSA is very pleased with such a good turnout at this point and looks forward to welcoming everyone in Chicago. For more information regarding the seminar program, registration, or sleeping room reservations, please the link to the right.
Judge Denies Pennsylvania Builders Association Request for Injunction
On Wednesday, March 10 Commonwealth Court Judge Johnny J. Butler denied the Pennsylvania Builders Association (PBA) request for a preliminary injunction enjoining the Department from enforcing its regulation adopting the 2009 International Codes. The result of this decision is that the 2009 ICC Codes remain in effect in Pennsylvania.
Read the full article here: <PennLive>
TEAM PHOENIX is Looking for Runners
TEAM PHOENIX is looking for runners to run the Chicago Marathon and support the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.
<More Information>
Anti-Sprinkler Legislation Dead in Iowa
According to the Des Moines Register, house file (HF 2508), which would have prevented counties and cities in Iowa from adopting the residential fire sprinkler requirement as outlined in the 2009 International Residential Code (IRC) is now dead. The NFSA would like to thank everyone who was involved in defeating this piece of legislation, especially the Iowa Fire Chiefs Association and Iowa Fire Marshals Association. To read the full story,
please click here.
Fire Sprinkler Industry Meets With National Association of Home Builders
By recommendation of NFSA President John Viniello, on Wednesday, March 3rd in Washington, D.C., the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) and American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) met with Jerry Howard, Chief Executive Officer of The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and his key staff.
<full story>
Scranton Times Tribune Publishes Article in Support of Residential Fire Sprinklers
In response to The Pennsylvania Builders Association lawsuit against the state to try and block Pennsylvania's adoption of the 2009 International Residential Code, Joe Ferrary of NFSA’s Public Relations Firm, R&J, wrote this article that appeared in Sunday’s Scranton Times Tribune. Please be sure to post a comment of your own in support of residential fire sprinklers! Our message IS getting across! (LINK TO FULL STORY HERE)
CFSI Webinar Series Advocating for Fire Sprinklers on Capitol Hill
Date: 2/25/2009
Time: 2:00 - 3:00pm Est
Location: Your Personal Computer!
Cost: Free
Rsvp: Email Malderfer@Cfsi.Org By 2/24/2010
Moderated by Bill Webb, CFSI Executive Director, the program will feature Andy Quinn, founding partner of McAllister and Quinn, a leading government relations company in Washington, DC. The two of them will talk about the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, legislation that would create economic incentives to install automatic fire sprinklers in commercial buildings. To register for this webinar please email malderfer@cfsi.org by close-of-business February 24, 2010.
Inquiring Minds Want to Know
While watching the Winter Olympics, we discovered that Alert, Canada was the northernmost permanently inhabited place in the world, with five inhabitants and a distance of only 508 miles from the North Pole. Now, here’s where you come in. Does anyone know, or have a way to find out, if there are any sprinklered properties in Alert? If one exists, it would be the northernmost sprinklered property in the world. If you know, or can Google™ better than we can, email us at Genadio@nfsa.org and we’ll post the answer right here.
Registration Materials for NFSA Annual Seminar Now Available
Registration materials for NFSA’s 2010 Annual Seminar are now available. They can be easily accessed by the link at the right of our homepage. Hard copies are also in the mail and should be received this week. The seminar will be held at the Fairmont Chicago, April 15-16. The program has been compressed into two days, minimizing the time our members have to take away from their businesses. The number of workshop sessions has increased, providing maximum training opportunities in a minimum amount of time. Take a look through the materials now and see the great programs we have lined up for you. Space is filling up fast. Reserve your spot today!
Make sure to take advantage of the March 1st “early-bird” registration deadline. You’ll save $125.00 off the already discounted registration fee.
Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Introduced In Senate
On Friday, January 22, 2010, Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), with Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) as primary cosponsor, introduced the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2010.
Passage of this landmark fire protection legislation will accelerate cost recovery of fire sprinkler retrofits in a large inventory of critical occupancies built under older codes prior to requirements for inclusion of fire sprinkler systems and get us one giant step closer to a fire safe America.
Read the full story here
Breaking News!
A report direct from the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition booth at the National Association of Home Builders Show, a segment featuring home fire sprinklers will be aired on ABC this evening at 5:30 EST. Be sure to tune in.
NFSA Establishes Haiti Relief Fund
In an effort to support humanitarian aid being sent to Haiti in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck the island country, NFSA has established the Haiti Relief Fund. Contributions can be made by February 1, 2010 to NFSA Haiti Relief Fund c/o of NFSA, 40 Jon Barrett Road, Patterson, New York 12563 at which time NFSA will make a single contribution to the American Red Cross in the amount received.
<read more> or <Donate>
Link Available for Viniello Radio Interview
In case you missed the riveting interview NFSA President John Viniello did on ” Bulldog Live", a radio talkshow which airs on WTPL 107.7FM in New Hampshire, a link is now available to listen to it in its entirety.
http://www.briantilton.com/JohnViniello010710WTPL.mp3
Breaking News: California Adopts IRC!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010 – NFSA is very pleased to report that late yesterday afternoon the California State Building Standards Commission unanimously approved the California State Fire Marshal’s adoption package for the 2010 California Residential Code. While this is a tremendous step forward in the advancement of public fire safety, what was most impressive said NFSA West Regional Manager Bruce Lecair and Steve Hart, consultant to NFSA, who were in attendance for the hearing, is there was literally no voice of opposition. Under California Building Standards Law, when the code takes effect January 1, 2011, all newly constructed single-family dwellings and townhomes will be required to be protected with automatic fire sprinklers. <read more>
NFSA Room Block Opens for 2010 Annual Seminar in Chicago
NFSA is pleased to announce the room block for its 2010 Annual Seminar being held April 15-16 at the Fairmont Hotel Chicago is open. The NFSA negotiated rates start at $239 per night for a Fairmont room with upgrades available at $289 per night. Reservations can be made by calling the Fairmont's direct reservation line at 800-526-2008 and identifying yourself as being with the NFSA group. To avoid the hassle of not getting into the limited NFSA room block, reservations should be made right away as the block will fill early. Conference registration information will be available shortly.
NFSA Reports Results of SAM and Area Director Elections
Results of recent SAM and Area Director elections for seats on NFSA’s SAM Council and Board of Directors are as follows: Bob Bussiere of new SAM member Wheatland Tube was elected to the SAM Council. SAM Council Chairman Chuck Kitts of System Sensor was re-elected to the council as was Bruce LaRue of Potter Electric Signal Company. They will each serve 3-year terms. Carl Cutrell of Nashville Sprinkler Company was elected to the Board of Directors representing contractor members in Area 3, while Dennis Coleman and Jack Thacker ran unopposed representing contractors in Area 8 and Area 10 respectively. Each will serve 3-year terms on the Board of Directors.
John Viniello to do Live Interview Today on New Hampshire’s “Bulldog Live”
Brain Tilton, host of "Bulldog Live", a radio show which airs on WTPL 107.7FM The Pulse in Concord, New Hampshire, will interview NFSA President John Viniello live, today January 7th at 2:25 p.m. regarding New Hampshire adopting the residential fire sprinklers requirement. John will discuss the residential fire sprinkler requirement and what it will mean for the people of New Hampshire. "Bulldog Live" is a daily show which engages the issues that affect the residents of New Hampshire. To listen go to www.wtplfm.com and click on “Listen Live” in the upper right corner.
Fire Sprinkler Roundtable Blog
As one of the worst economic years in our industry comes to a close, NFSA would like to take the opportunity to remind everyone of the Fire Sprinkler Roundtable Blog (www.nfsa.org/blog). This ‘blog’ was introduced in November via the November 2009 issue of GrassRoots. NFSA hopes that whether the message is positive or negative, that you, the people of our industry, use this blog for sharing economic happenings around the country. Please take a few moments to review what has already been posted and leave your comments by clicking here.
Thank you for your input and NFSA wishes everyone a Happy and Healthy 2010!
CNN examines Lightweight Construction
On the December 18th “American Morning” show, CNN aired a piece on the dangers of lightweight home construction, and the dangers posed to both firefighters and home occupants. In the video, they visited Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) to see a test of the “I-beam” floor joists under fire conditions. Fire sprinklers were featured as a cost-effective way to save lives and property. Click here to watch the video.
Pennsylvania adopts 2009 International Residential Code
December 15, 2009 - Pennsylvania will require all newly constructed townhouses to contain a residential fire sprinkler system starting January 1, 2010 and in all newly constructed one- and two-family homes effective January 1, 2011.
View the press release
New Hampshire Adopts IRC!
On Friday, December 11, the New Hampshire State Code Review Board voted in the majority to adopt the International Residential Code 2009 edition, including townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems and one- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems; effective April 1, 2012. Read the full story
Second Fatal Fire at Chicago High-rise Condo
December 11, 2009 - A second fire in seven years in the same Chicago high-rise condominium has claimed yet another life and injured others including five firefighters. The building was not protected with an automatic fire sprinkler system. Tom Lia, Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, the Illinois Chapter of NFSA, spoke to the media about this avoidable tragedy.
Read the full story
View Tom Lia interview
Track IRC Adoption Status at Expanded NFSA Website
NFSA has Regional Operations offices strategically located in 14 regions across the country. Each is staffed by a full-time Regional Manager who together have a collective “finger on the pulse” of what’s happening regarding IRC adoption at the state and local level. This capability has allowed NFSA to expand information available at its website. By following the new link labeled “IRC Update” and clicking on the state of interest on the map, details can be found about the status of IRC adoption in that particular state.
NFSA Introduces Resource “Toolbox” to Assist Community Leaders
With citizen and emergency first-responder safety at issue, many communities are looking to the adoption of residential fire sprinkler ordinances to reduce losses of both life and property from fire. As such, requests from local legislators, fire chiefs and building officials to NFSA for “how to” information has grown tremendously. To meet the demand, NFSA is pleased to announce the introduction of its “Resource Toolbox”. <Press Release>
NFSA Announces Awards Recipients
NFSA’s Awards Committee has announced it has named Ausmus Marburger of Fire Protection Industries in Bensalem, Pennsylvania as the 2010 recipient of the Golden Sprinkler Award, the association’s highest honor. They also named Jerome Pepi, Vice President of Research and Development (ret.) of Grinnell’s Fire Protection Products Division, as recipient of the Technical Service Award. The Leadership in Public Safety Award will be presented to Ron Coleman and Don Pamplin. Ron is a former California State Fire Marshal and Don is a former Fire Chief for the City of Vancouver, British Columbia now NFSA Pacific Northwest Regional Manager. Presentations will be made at NFSA’s 2010 Annual Seminar in Chicago. <read the full story>
NFSA Member, Livingston Fire Protection Donates to Extreme Makeover-Home Edition
NFSA member, Livingston Fire Protection of Hyattsville, Maryland fully sprinklered two properties during a one week period for Extreme Makeover- Home Edition. The construction will be highlighted in a one-hour special sometime in February, during “Sweeps Week!”Livingston donated over three weeks of design, many hours of fabrication and trucking, more than 500 hours of field installation time and many hours of corporate employees time to ensure these projects received the very best from their sprinkler contractor! NFSA takes pride in the good works of an outstanding member! Great job, Livingston! See photos of the project here, courtesy of Donna Oliver:
ICC Committee Action Keeps Fire Sprinklers in Homes
Reaffirming action taken last year by its membership to include fire sprinklers in the construction of new one- and two-family homes, last night the International Code Council rejected a National Association of Home Builders proposal to remove residential fire sprinkler requirements from the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code. To achieve success, NFSA joined forces with the International Residential Code Fire Sprinkler Coalition – a large alliance of fire service professional organizations, including fire chiefs and fire marshals, fire code associations, and citizen advocacy groups. <read more>
Residential Fire Sprinkler Vote-Today!
From the ICC hearings in Baltimore: The residential fire sprinkler vote will be on the agenda today (Wed.) some time late afternoon or early evening, according to an ICC staff member. According to fire sprinkler advocates on the scene, only a limited number of home builders have been seen at today’s hearings.
ICC Hearing Update
From the ICC hearings in Baltimore: Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., and a Common Voices Advocate, is at the ICC hearings in Baltimore to testify on behalf of mandatory residential fire sprinkler requirements in U.S. building codes. She reports her goal is to emphasize not just the toll on lives, but also the impact of home fires on our citizens as it relates to burn injuries. She notes people routinely look at the 3,000 deaths per year from home fires, but don’t always consider the impact of 13,000 plus burn injuries per year from home fires. Amy is confident the fire service can stop the effort by home builders to repeal the safety protections the IRC includes to make homes safer.
ICC Hearing Attendees Invited to Barbeque
ICC hearing attendees are invited to a barbeque! The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, Common Voices Coalition, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, and Fire Team USA are hosting a BBQ on Wednesday, October 28, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., served by the District of Columbia Fire Department's award-winning BBQ Team. The food will be served at the Steadman Fire Station, (15 S. Eutaw St. near Lombard St. – just 1-1/2 blocks north from the Hilton Baltimore, where the hearings are being held. Common Voices is an Advocates’ Coalition sponsored by the National Fire Sprinkler Association. The advocates that serve as the Coalition’s Advisory Committee have all been directly affected by fire. By bringing their voices together, the NFSA hopes to assist the advocates in their quest to ensure that others will not have to deal with similar tragedies. This Coalition strives to make a difference by sharing their stories and influencing change, and will be testifying at the ICC hearings.
Hearings Hotline Activated
NFSA has activated the ICC Hearings Hotline, which will provide updates about the ICC fire sprinkler hearings on October 28-29. The hotline will provide information about the IRC voting and timing to assemble for the ICC hearings at the Hilton Baltimore, 401 West Pratt Street, Baltimore. It will be updated by NFSA Manager of Codes, Jeff Hugo, who is now on-site at the hearings. The hotline number is (845) 878-4200 Ext. 180. Please check the hotline for updates regularly, especially on Wednesday, October 28, as we near the possible voting time in the afternoon. The hearings can be viewed line online at http://iccsafetrack1.distancelearningcenter.com/
Illinois
Regional Manager Bob Kleinheinz Receives Achievement AwardBob Kleinheinz, NFSA Illinois Regional Manager, will be presented with the Achievement Award by the Illinois Fire Inspectors Association on Friday, October 23. Buffalo Grove Fire Marshal George Michehl wrote a winning nomination letter on Bob’s behalf. All of us at NFSA wish to congratulate Bob on being recognized for his dedication and hard work. Way to go, Bob!
Sprinkler Industry Business Climate Survey Results Available
Over the last few weeks, NFSA conducted a survey of fire sprinkler contractors to gauge the depth and potential length of the current economic downturn. Over 200 anonymous responses were received from fire sprinkler contractors all over the country. The results have be compiled and are available
View the results
NFSA Green Committee Seeking LEED Input
The NFSA Green Committee is seeking input on the recognition of fire sprinklers in the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building certification program. The committee formed earlier this year is seeking to promote the concept that a building can’t be considered “green” unless it is protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system. The committee is currently trying to find out if LEED credits have been awarded on any projects for sprinkler-related reasons, such as innovation in design. Please take a few minutes and respond to the survey.
Take the survey!
NFSA
Banner Televised on Today ShowThe NFSA banner appeared on the Today Show on Monday, October 5th. In honor of Fire Prevention Week, Darcie Borden of NFSA’s public relations firm, R&J was able to get a shot of the banner on the air and spoke with Al Roker about Fire Prevention Week.
Sprinklerman to Celebrate Fire Prevention Week with Coloring Contest
Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10, 2009 and to celebrate, Sprinklerman™© is hosting a coloring contest. Entries will be separated into four categories based on age: 3-4, 5-7, 8-9 and 10-12. The prize for each category will be a $50 US Savings Bond. Entries must be postmarked by October 31, 2009. Winners will be notified by November 30, 2009 and published at the NFSA website, in the March/April 2010 issue of SQ magazine and other NFSA publications.
Here’re the rules and picture.
NFSA Develops Online “Resource Toolbox” to Support IRC Adoption
Adoption of the latest edition of the International Residential Code has been the source of hearings and debates in cities and states all over the country. To provide support for authorities interested in arming themselves with the facts about residential fire sprinkler requirements and their advantages, NFSA has made available a new online resource.
Read the release Resource Toolbox
NFSA 2010 Annual Seminar in Chicago April 14-18
The Fairmont Chicago in Chicago, Illinois will host NFSA’s 2010 Annual Seminar. Due to economic conditions, the NFSA Board of Directors unanimously endorsed a recommendation of the Seminar and Exhibition Committee to move the venue from the Hawaiian Islands to the mainland. Look for details on extended business sessions and timely topics on how to maintain a competitive edge in a very difficult business environment. The business sessions will be conducted on Thursday April 15 and Friday April 16. Details will follow in special mailings and on our website.
NFSA Announces Partnership with USFA
NFSA is proud to announce that we have entered into a partnership with the United States Fire Administration (USFA) for the “Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign,” due to launch in November 2009. The campaign will emphasize the need to have working smoke alarms and residential fire sprinklers installed in all homes. NFSA will distribute key materials and promote the campaign to our members and the general public. NFSA’s name will appear on the campaign fact sheet on the USFA website and on campaign materials. The campaign’s website will be linked to the NFSA website and vice versa. We at NFSA are truly excited about this partnership. We see this as a big step forward towards widespread acceptance of residential fire sprinklers and wish to thank USFA for this wonderful opportunity.
Welcome to the Big Leagues!
Sprinklerman© brought luck, as well as good will, to the Washington Nationals at his major league debut on September 10th. The Nationals beat the Philadelphia Phillies and Sprinklerman took to the field with Screech, the Nationals mascot. It was a night of great exposure, publicity and a wonderful opportunity to educate the public about the life and property saving attributes of fire sprinkler systems. View photo here
Sprinklerman Makes Major League Debut
Sprinklerman© will make his major league baseball debut appearance at the brand new Nationals Ballpark as the Washington Nationals face the Philadelphia Phillies! The game is scheduled for Thursday, September 10th at 7:15 p.m.
Full story here
The Latest Winner of Sprinklerman Photo Contest Announced
Elietzer Allendes of Fishkill, New York is the winner of the Sprinklerman Photo Contest held at the Hudson Valley Renegades game in Wappinger Falls, New York on August 26th. Sprinklerman got a great reception from fans at the game. The information booth was bustling with activity and over 1,500 “green” bags stuffed with Sprinklerman coloring books, crayons and stickers were given away.
View photo here
Fire Pump Acceptance Test Form on Sale While Supplies Last!
NFSA announces a 50% off sale on our Fire Pump Acceptance Test Forms, while supplies last. The forms cover the minimum requirements of NFPA 20-2003 for performing acceptance tests on fire pumps. Regularly priced for members at $15.00 for a 2-sheet set of 15, we are offering the sets for $7.50 each. Contact Gail Repko at 845.878.4200 ext. 111 or grepko@nfsa.org to order. Click here to view the NFSA Resource Center Catalog.
eTechAlert Moves into 2nd Place among NFSA Publications
eTechAlert has passed SQ to move into second on the list of NFSA publications with the most issues. Started in July of 2004, eTechAlert marks its 157th issue in just over five years. The September/October 2009 issue of NFSA’s SQ magazine was a 156th issue. NFSA’s Sprinkler TechNotes, started in 1978 as a bi-monthly technical newsletter, holds the lead with 183 issues published. The combined publication of Sprinkler TechNotes and the eTechAlert means that, not counting technical articles in SQ, NFSA has issued 340 technical bulletins to its members over the past 30 years – more than half of them published in the last five years.
SPRINKLERMAN™© COLORING CONTEST with the New Britain Rock Cats!
NFSA is teaming up with the New Britain Rock Cats minor league ball club in New Britain, Connecticut to teach children about fire safety and fire sprinklers. Both organizations want to explain about fire hazards and difficulties once a fire begins, share with children ways to prevent and protect against fire, including sprinklers, and pass along knowledge about sprinklers and the benefits they can provide in homes, work places, and recreational areas. Go to www.rockcats.com for more information and to download the coloring contest page.
National Fire Sprinkler Association on Twitter, Facebook and Myspace
In an effort to join the social networking revolution and spread the word about the life and property saving attributes of fire sprinkler systems, NFSA now has pages on Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. Join our network and check our pages frequently to gain access to the most up-to-date information on all your association is doing for you and what’s going on in the fire sprinkler world.
Facebook: send a friend request to Nat Firesprinkler
Twitter: follow us at NFSAorg
Myspace: send friend request to NFSA
Utah Fire Department Promotes Residential Fire Sprinklers
In a side by side residential sprinkler burn demonstration, the fire department in Murray, Utah recently made a convincing case to the local media why fire sprinklers should be an integral part of new home construction. Utah is currently considering adopting the IRC and fire officials there want legislators to know how its citizens will benefit from the increased economical public safety that will come with its adoption.
<see the video>
Fire Team USA Workshop Receives $732,580 Grant to Continue 2009 – 2010 Tour
NFSA is very pleased to report that Fire Team USA received notification from the 2008 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that their grant in the amount of $732,580 was funded. Fire Team USA will use the grant funds for delivery of Fire Team USA, a workshop series that brings together public policy-makers, fire chiefs, building officials, water purveyors, and fire marshals to learn about fire sprinklers and how they can be an effective strategic planning tool and resource for their community. <full story>
Chris Gaut Honored by Fire Marshals Association of Missouri
NFSA Central Regional Manager Chris Gaut has been
awarded the “Presidents Award” for 2009 from the Fire Marshals Association of
Missouri (FMAM.) The award is presented annually to a person or group that helps
FMAM accomplish their mission. Chris was recognized for his hard work
campaigning against the recent Missouri state law proposal to restrict
residential sprinkler mandates. All of us at NFSA extend the heartiest of
congratulations to Chris for a job well done.Sprinklerman Joins Mascots at Tampa Yankees Game
Sprinklerman© was definitely the “best dressed” mascot at the Tampa Yankees game in Florida on July 31st. Invited to take part in the team’s Mascot Day, Sprinklerman delighted young and old alike as he took part in many on- and off-field activities. Lorrell Bush, Assistant to the Director of Regional Operations, Buddy Dewar, oversaw the event and was happy to report that the fans were eager to meet, and have their photo taken with, Sprinklerman. Coloring books and green bags disappeared at a healthy pace as they were snatched up by the fans. The NFSA logo was seen not only on the Jumbotron, but on the arms of most of the fans whom carried their green bags throughout the venue.
Photo 1 - Photo 2 - Photo 3
NFSA Responds to Habitat for Humanity’s Campaign Against Fire Sprinklers
NFSA has delivered a letter to Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford in response to that organization’s campaigning against governmental adoption of the recently adopted International Residential Code (IRC). The IRC requires fire sprinkler systems to be installed in all new one- and two-family homes in the U.S., starting in 2011. The code is in the process of being adopted at state and/or local jurisdictional levels across the country.
Read the letter
Longtime NFSA Administrative Assistant Passes Away
It is with a deep sense of sadness that we report the untimely passing of Moira Ravel, longtime administrative assistant to the President, John Viniello.
Moira was born in Ireland, but grew up
in Scotland, and came to the United States to live in 1958.
She had been with NFSA since the mid 1980's and will always be remembered as
being a very warm, generous, kind hearted person always willing to help with any
project.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.
Somerset Patriot’s Sprinklerman Photo Contest Winner Announced
Congratulations to Liliana Jurado of Middlesex, New Jersey! Liliana is the winner of the Sprinklerman© photo contest held at the Somerset Patriots game on July 20th, 2009 at TD Bank Park in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Liliana’s dad took the winning photo and emailed us to make sure we knew how much he appreciated the Sprinklerman promotion and the work that NFSA puts into each and every appearance. Thanks to both of them!
View photo here
Sprinklerman Rocks Rockford
Mario Tristian and Bernie Arends with NIFSAB joined Illinois Regional Manager Bob Kleinheinz to assist in working the Sprinklerman© event at the Rockford Riverhawks game on July 9th. A special part of the evening, one that was perfect for a Sprinklerman appearance, was a Guns vs. Hoses game for the Rockford Fire Department. Bob was happy to report that NFSA received plenty of support from Rockford area sprinkler contractor members. Absolute Fire Protection brought the whole office and Nelson Fire Protection was also in attendance. Everyone enjoyed the evening and was proud of the work NFSA is doing to bring fire sprinkler awareness to the general public.
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Let NFSA Help You Learn About Residential Sprinklers: Are You Prepared for the 2009 IRC?
NFSA has the following seminars available to help you better understand residential sprinkler requirements. These seminars are designed for code officials, design professionals and for anyone involved with the installation of residential sprinklers:
1. Sprinklers for Dwellings (NFPA 13D): This one-day seminar details the installation and layout of an NFPA 13 D sprinkler system.
2. Homes to High-rise: This one-day seminar covers the differences between NFPA 13, NFPA 13R and NFPA 13D residential sprinkler requirements.
3. Layout and Hydraulic Calculation of NFPA 13D Residential Sprinkler Systems: This three-day seminar will provide the layout
technician or anyone who deals with residential systems with the knowledge and skills to layout a NFPA 13D residential system.
4. On-Line Seminars (NFSA Academy) several 1 to 1.5 hour classes related to residential sprinklers are also available.
To register or review seminar details for any one of these seminars you can go to the NFSA web site www.nfsa.org and click on the white button (left side) marked "Seminars". You may also contact Mike Repko – Training Coordinator at (845) 878 – 4200 EXT. 120 or email Mike at seminars@nfsa.org.
Sprinklerman Hits a Homerun at Somerset Patriots Game in New Jersey
Sprinklerman© had another successful appearance on July 20th at the Somerset Patriots baseball game in Bridgewater, New Jersey. It was Firefighter’s Appreciation Night at the stadium and Sprinklerman was able to participate in an event to honor local firefighters who had dedicated their careers to ensuring the safety of area residents. The crowd was especially enthusiastic about our faithful mascot, as many were members of the firefighting community. Sprinklerman was not able to walk through the stadium without being stopped for photos, autographs and hugs for both young and old alike.
Photo 1 - Photo 2 - Photo 3
United States Fire Administration Promotes Residential Fire Sprinklers
The USFA has promoted research, development, testing, and demonstrations of residential fire sprinkler systems for more than 30 years. Research regarding residential fire sprinklers has indisputably demonstrated that they save the lives of occupants and firefighters, significantly reduce the risk of premature building collapse in a fire where lightweight construction components are used, and reduce property loss caused by fire. <link to full story>
And The Winner Is…
Congratulations go out to 4 year-old Caroline Antos of Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. Caroline is the winner of the Sprinklerman© photo contest held at the Reading Phillies game on July 6th. According to NFSA Mid Atlantic Regional Manager, Ray Lonabaugh, who coordinated the event, it was a stunning success. The fans were excited to meet Sprinklerman, get his autograph and spend some time at the information table learning about the life and property saving attributes of fire sprinkler systems. Our thanks go out to all who helped add the latest feather to Sprinklerman’s cap!
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Name the Green Column Contest Extended!
Help us spread the message that fire sprinklers are green! As reported in the membership column of the July/August issue of SQ, NFSA is holding a members’ only contest to name Dom Kasmauskas’ SQ column. The winner will receive NFSA’s Layout, Detail and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems textbook and 50 “Fire Sprinklers are Green” bags. That’s $335 in prizes! We’ve extended the deadline until September 1st, so get your entries in now! Email them to genadio@nfsa.org. The winner will be announced in the November/December issue of SQ.
NFSA Announces Second Half of 2009 “Business Thursday” Onlines –DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE!!!
“Business Thursdays” Onlines for the second half of 2009 are now posted under our “Seminars” link. NFSA is proud to offer a 30% discount for the full package of six. Also, for those that pick up this package in addition to the package of ten “Technical Tuesdays”, we will apply a 50% discount to the Thursday add-on package! (Click here for course descriptions)
NFSA Industry Advancement Fund Pledges Now Total $288,800.00
NFSA is very pleased to announce that pledges to the Industry Advancement Fund (IAF) since its inception now total $288,000.00. At the top of the 2009 pledge list are generous contributions of $10,000 from the API Group and $5,000 from General Air Products. To join them and others who have supported the advancement of the fire sprinkler industry through their tax deductible contributions, click here.
NFSA Wins Award for Fire Sprinkler Technician Recruitment Video
NFSA has won a Public Relations Society of America New Jersey Chapter “Pyramid Award” for its Fire Sprinkler Technician Recruitment Video, targeting entry-level workers to join the fire sprinkler industry. The annual awards program recognizes exceptional performance generating public relations visions, strategies, and programs that result in measurable return for their client’s brands and bottom lines. The project was lead by NFSA’s Technician Recruitment Committee, co-chaired by Terry Victor of SimplexGrinnell and Alan Wiginton of Wiginton Fire Systems. The winning video can be viewed here.
NFSA Joins United States Green Building Council
While it has been promoting the “green” benefits of automatic fire sprinkler protection for some time now, NFSA has made its support of environmentally friendly construction practices official by becoming a member of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). NFSA’s membership will give the fire sprinkler industry an important voice in the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program. Appearing in the Mar/Apr 2009 issue of SQ magazine, NFSA’s New York Regional Manager Dominick Kasmauskas wrote an article reviewing USGBC, their LEED program and the role fire sprinkler protection can play in the reduction of ozone depleting greenhouse gases.
Green Construction and Fire Protection
Winner of Sprinklerman Photo Contest at Tin Caps Game Announced
Nick Carlson is the winner of the Sprinklerman© photo contest held at the Fort Wayne Tin Caps game in Fort Wayne, Indiana on June 13th. Ron Brown, NFSA Great Lakes Regional Manager, coordinated the event. Ron was happy to see that the response to Sprinklerman was extremely positive as young and old alike crowded around to shake his hand and get a photo taken with our hero. Many took advantage of the handouts available at the information table we had in the stadium concourse. Ron reported that Sprinklerman, as well as NFSA received great exposure at the game. Thanks to all who worked the event and thanks to Nick for entering the contest!|
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NFSA Cancels 2010 Hawaii Annual Seminar, Cites Responsibility to Industry
Today, Tuesday, June 16, the Board of Directors of the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) made the very difficult but prudent decision to cancel next year’s Annual Seminar scheduled for May 12 – 15 at the Fairmont Orchid on Hawaii’s Big Island. While not definite, it is possible that NFSA will host a downsized , two-day annual event in a Midwestern city within easy, cost-effective reach of the entire membership. As plans develop, additional information will be posted here as it becomes available. |
Read the full story
Texas Bill Would Limit Cities Rules on Fire Sprinklers
A late-session provision that would prohibit municipalities from requiring sprinkler systems in some residences has left Gov. Rick Perry stuck between a brigade of Texas fire chiefs and the campaign dollars of local homebuilders.
Rep. John Otto, R-Dayton, tacked the amendment on to a plumber licensing bill during the waning days of the session. If Perry signs it, the measure would stop municipalities from requiring sprinkler systems in single- and two-family homes after Jan. 1, 2009, meaning the bill would nullify any ordinances passed this year.
Read news story here From Common Voices
Birthday Boy Wins Sprinklerman Photo Contest
Julian Brodsky of Cumberland Maine is our latest winner of the Sprinklerman Photo Contest. Julian had his picture taken with Sprinklerman at the June 2, 2009 Portland Sea Dogs baseball game. This was a particularly special game for Julian as it was on his seventh birthday. Congratulations to Julian and thanks to him and everyone else that participated!
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Our Latest Sprinklerman Photo Contest Winner
Matthew Busch Jr. of Whitman, Massachusetts is the happy winner of the Sprinklerman™ photo contest held at the Brockton Rox game in Brockton, Massachusetts on May 30th. Matthew will receive a $50 gift card as his prize for sending in a winning photo of himself with Sprinklerman. The response to this initiative has been overwhelming so far this season. NFSA wishes to thank each and every entrant who sent in a photo. We love seeing the positive response Sprinklerman is receiving and to know that we are educated the youngest generation as to the life and property saving attributes of fire sprinklers. Way to go Matthew!
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Sprinklerman a Big Hit at Portland Sea Dogs Game in Portland, Maine!
Sprinklerman™ had another successful appearance, this time in Portland, Maine. 3,962 persons were in attendance last night, June 3rd, at the Portland Sea Dogs game. The NFSA logo was on the Jumbotron several times for all in attendance to see. Sprinklerman threw out the first pitch to start off the game. The “Fire Sprinklers are Green” bags, Sprinklerman coloring books and FYI’s were well received and went fast, according to New England Regional Manager Tim Travers who coordinated the event.
Photo 1 - Photo 2
Sprinklerman makes Successful Appearance at Brockton Rox Game in Massachusetts
New England Regional Manager Tim Travers coordinated the Sprinklerman™ appearance at the Brockton Rox ballgame in Brockton Massachusetts on Saturday, May 30th. According to Tim it was an extremely successful event. Many members of the Boston Sprinkler Fitters Local 550 and a few staffers from nearby NFPA headquarters were in attendance. The NFSA booth was located just inside the main gate. Green bags, coloring books and crayons and NFSA literature were quickly snatched up by the fans. Sprin
klerman posed and signed autographs with a member of the Rox baseball team. In pre-game activities Sprinklerman threw out the first pitch and was on the field between each inning with the Rox mascot.
Photo 1 - Photo 2 - Photo 3
Special SAM Council Election Results
At the request of the NFSA Supplier and Manufacturers (SAM) Council, the NFSA Board recently amended the Association’s By-Laws to expand the membership of the Council from 9 to 12 members. A special election was held among the SAM members of the Association, and three individuals have been elected to staggered terms:
Robert Lopuzzo – Ferguson Fire and Fabrication, Passaic, NJ, will serve through 2012
Randal Greenslate – Fire Protection Products, Carlsbad, CA, will serve through 2011
Patrick Wallis – Allied Tube and Conduit, Harvey, IL, will serve through 2010
These individuals will be seated at the June 15, 2009 meeting of the NFSA Councils, which will take place in Quebec in conjunction with the Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association’s Annual General Meeting.
NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition Draws Over 1000 Attendees!
The NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition held at the Omni ChampionsGate in Orlando wrapped up on the evening of Saturday, May 2, where at the closing banquet attendees had the opportunity to spend time with old friends and make plans to see each other at next year’s Annual Seminar. Since this was an exhibition year, attendees had the opportunity to see firsthand, the latest in sprinkler technology at the over 115 booths. When the final registration numbers were tallied, including pre-registrants and walk-ins to the exhibition, over 1000 people in all attended. Check out the smiling faces!
| Banquet | Exhibition | General Session |
| Miscellaneous | Top Tech Competition | Workshops |
And the Winner Is…..
We have our first winner of the season in our Sprinklerman™© Photo Contest. At each appearance at a minor league park, Sprinklerman’s™© youngest fans are encourage to get their photo taken with him and send it in to NFSA Headquarters for a chance to win a $50.00 gift card. We received a great response from Sprinklerman’s™© first appearance at the Daytona Cubs Game in Daytona, Florida on April 26th. Destiny Adams, age 10, of Port Orange, Florida is the lucky winner. NFSA wishes to thank all who entered and reminds you to watch for Sprinklerman™© appearances in minor league ballparks this summer near you. Come on out and support this great initiative to educate the general public as to the life- and property-saving attributes of fire sprinkler systems. Folks, this one’s a winner! See The Winning Photo
Newcomers’ Reception Early Highlight at Annual Seminar & Exhibition
The Newcomers’ Reception held at NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando April 30 – May 2 proved to be an early highlight. It was an extraordinary opportunity for newcomers to the conference to meet NFSA staff and members of the board of directors. Host for the session, David Vandeyar, NFSA’s Director of Communications, touched upon the many NFSA highlights using the 2008 Annual Report released to coincide with the Annual Seminar & Exhibition. View the 2008 Annual Report
National Fire Service Speaks Out Against Anti-sprinkler Bills
Citing the fact that more than 90 percent of fireground firefighter deaths occur in one- and two-family homes, leading fire service organizations warned against state-by-state legislative efforts, orchestrated by homebuilders, which are designed to prohibit communities from requiring residential fire sprinklers in new home construction. Fire service groups are reiterating their strong support for sprinklers in the wake of several legislative attempts across the country. Press Release
Team Northeast Takes Top Tech Championship
Having to come from behind in the semi-final round to make it to the finals, the Top Tech Team from the Northeast region had to prove once again they could overccome a deficit to win. In a match that saw the Great Lakes team jump out to an early lead, they faltered on the final question and team Northeast secured the win with a correct answer. The final score was 90-50. Members of the winning team won $1,000 cash prizes and two years of bragging rights as the best fire sprinkler technicians in the land. That's all from NFSA's Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando - for now.
Great Lakes and Northeast Advance to Championship Round
In an extremely competitive semi-final round, the Top Tech team from the Great Lakes region has upset defending champion, Florida. Tied at 70-70, each team wagered all on the final question - Great Lakes emerged victorious. In the other semi-final round, while behind 40-85 going into the final question, the Northeast team managed to pull out a win with the final score of 80-70. Great Lakes and the Northeast will face off in the finals at 3:30 p.m. EDT. Stay tuned!
Florida, Defending Top Tech Champions Advance to Final Four
NFSA's Top Tech Competition is down to the Final Four. After closely contested matches, defending champions, Florida, Northeast - last year's runners up - Great Plains and Great Lakes have advanced to the Final Four. By the time this update is posted, the Final Four rounds will be underway. Stay tuned for updates as they happen.
NFSA Top Tech Competition Update
NFSA's Top Tech Competition being held at the Omni ChampionsGate in Orlando in conjunction with the Annual Seminar & Exhibition is underway this afternoon. Anticipation is high among the 42 contestants representing 14 teams from across the U.S. and Canada. After the opening round the following teams have advanced to the Elite Eight; Northeast, Central, Great Plains, Mid-Atlantic, Florida, Pacific Northwest, North Central and Great Lakes. Check back later this afternoon for Final Four and Championship results.
Fire Sprinkler Contractors Business Climate Survey Results
Over the last week, NFSA conducted a web-based survey to gauge fire sprinkler contractors’ responses to a series of questions regarding their business operations in the current economic climate. By the deadline on Thursday, April 23, over 400 responses were logged and the results are in.
View the results here
Pennsylvania Vote Keeps Sprinkler Requirements in IRC
NFSA’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager Ray Lonabaugh reports that after hearing 6-1/2 hours of testimony from 17 fire professionals from the Pennsylvania Residential Fire Sprinkler Coalition yesterday evening, that by a vote of 11-5, the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code ICC Review and Advisory Council voted to maintain residential fire sprinkler requirements for one- and two-family homes and townhouses in the 2009 Edition of the International Residential Code.
Sprinklerman to Make First Appearance of the Season
We are proud to announce that the mascot of the fire sprinkler industry, Sprinklerman™©, is set to make a personal appearance at the Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, 105 E. Orange Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 on Sunday, April 26, 2009 at 5:35 p.m. Sprinklerman™© will be handing out Sprinklerman™© Coloring Books, bumper stickers and other promotional items in an effort to educate the general public as to the life- saving attributes of automatic fire sprinkler systems.
Fire Sprinkler Contractors Business Climate Survey
The current recessionary cycle is affecting every fire sprinkler contractor in the country. Prices are off. Margins are down and bid activity is nearly nonexistent. How long will it last? It will only take a minute to answer the following survey, but the input will be invaluable in determining the depth and potential length of the present downturn. Immediately following the response deadline of Thursday, April 23, the results will be published here on the NFSA website. All responses will be completely anonymous. No company information is required to respond.
Survey closed
New Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Form Available with Insurance Information
NFSA has updated its most popular Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Form (the Wet Pipe Sprinkler System Form, #25-13W) to the 2008 edition of NFPA 25. In addition, the NFSA has added a place on the form to identify the owner’s insurance company. This will allow the inspection company to send a copy of the report of inspection directly to the insurance AHJ. For more information, or to receive a Resource Center Catalog, contact the NFSA at (845) 878-4200 x111 or click on “Catalog” in the menu on the left to download a copy of the catalog and order form. When ordering these new forms, please note on the order form, which version (2004, or 2008) that you wish to receive.
Best Practices to be Featured on Business Thursday Online
Next week’s Business Thursday online seminar will feature the Fire Sprinkler Industry Best Practices program. The one-hour session will review some of the major issues challenging fire sprinkler contractors today, and specific Best Practices tools and approaches that can be used to resolve them. As a bonus to NFSA members, the cost of the seminar will be deducted from the regular Best Practices subscription rate if enrollment in the program takes place within 30-days. <click here> for more information.
April 7th and May 12th Technical Tuesday Onlines Switched
Due to a last-minute scheduling conflict, the NFSA has switched two of the topics in the schedule for its current series of “Technical Tuesday” online seminars. “Older Systems and Components”, originally scheduled for April 7th, will be held on May 12th. “Frequently Asked Questions – Part 4”, which was originally scheduled for the May12th date, will be moved up to April 7th. The NFSA regrets any difficulties that might result from this switch.
NFSA Annual Seminar “Early-bird” Registration Deadline Snowed Out
In early March a late season nor’easter blanketed the east coast from Georgia to Maine, stymieing travel along the entire eastern seaboard. NFSA’s headquarters sat squarely in its path, burying us with over a foot of powder. Since there were likely many unable to make it into their offices to register for NFSA’s Annual Seminar before the “early-bird” registration deadline, NFSA announced extending the deadline indefinitely. Discounts include up to $200 off the regular registration fees. On top of that there’s also a 50 percent discount for both the new and loyal NFSA annual seminar registrant. Click here for registration information.
Discounted 2009 Annual Seminar Sponsorships Available Until April 15!
In the spirit of keeping all annual seminar discounts in line, NFSA is offering reduced priced annual seminar sponsorships via the on-line auction process. This auction will not close until April 15...which gives all plenty time to decide and bid. On the flipside, if there is something you really have to have, bid the full value price and become an instant winner! The new auction is available at ReadySetAuction.com . The catalog is now on-line and open and will continue until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15.
Please follow the instructions on the ReadySetAuction website. You will have to sign up and have a user name in order to actually bid on an item. If you participated in this process last year you may be able to use your existing username, if not, be creative and make a new one!
This is a great opportunity to gain additional brand exposure off the trade show floor.
Please note that 50% of the monies collected from sponsorship opportunities will help defray the cost of each “Top Tech” Competition finalists traveling to Orlando.
NFSA Annual Seminar Hotel Reservation Deadline Approaching
Have you made your hotel reservations yet for NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando? There are still rooms available but the deadline to get into the NFSA room block at the negotiated rate is this Friday, April 3. As a bonus, anyone who has already made a room reservation with the Omni ChampionsGate or does so before the April 3 deadline will receive a room rate of $215, a savings of $24 per night. Call 1.800.843.6664 or Click here for reservations.
Anti-sprinkler Bill Defeated in Illinois
A statewide legislative threat that would have eliminated the ability of local communities to adopt or enforce requirements for home fire sprinklers has been defeated in Illinois. The Illinois bill died in recent days, but sprinkler opponents continue to push similar anti-sprinkler legislation in several other states. Despite the fact that all major safety codes now call for the installation of fire sprinklers in new one- and two-family homes, sprinkler opponents want to prevent the adoption of these codes at the local level. The anti-sprinkler legislation threatens to put lives at stake.
NFSA Poised to Combat Anti-sprinkler Legislation
The recent adoption by the International Code Council of the latest edition of the International Residential Code, which now holds requirements for the installation of fire sprinklers in one- and two-family homes, has brought homebuilders’ organizations all over the country to arms. As a result, anti-sprinkler legislation has sprung in nearly a dozen states. NFSA is poised to respond. Follow the link to see contact information in the states affected so far.
Download the map here
Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act Introduced to 111th Congress
On Wednesday, February 25, 2009, Representative Jim Langevin (D-RI), introduced the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act to the 111th Congress. The bill, which will become the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2009, will be HR1194. The Bill was introduced with 55 co-sponsors already on board including primary cosponsor Representative Eric Cantor (R-VA). Today, March 3, 2009, the NFSA Common Voices advocacy ladies, accompanied by representatives of the national fire and building organizations, fire sprinkler labor representatives and uniformed fire personnel, will be visiting selected Congressional offices on Capitol Hill to drum up additional cosponsor support for the bill.
Read more here
Unbeatable Airfares Available to NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando, Florida
Check out the outstanding airfares available to the 2009 NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando, Florida by clicking on the “Sample Airfares Update” link to the right of this page. We’ve found some unbeatable deals departing from all parts of the country. Make all your reservations now so you’ll be sure to get a seat on the plane and a room at the Omni ChampionsGate. Don’t forget that our early-bird discount expires on Sunday, March 1st! Book NOW for your greatest savings!
Common Voices receives Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Safety Leadership Award
The Congressional Fire Services Institute and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation have selected the Common Voices Coalition to receive the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. The award recognizes organizations for outstanding contributions to firefighter health and safety.
Read the full story here
NFSA Announces Gey as 2009 Golden Sprinkler Award Recipient
NFSA’s Awards Committee has announced Wayne Gey as this year’s Golden Sprinkler Award recipient. Gey, who is the immediate past chairman of NFSA’s Board of Directors, is CEO of the prominent Florida fire sprinkler contractor Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc. His longtime support of both the NFSA and Florida Fire Sprinkler Association – a Chapter of NFSA is well documented. He will be presented with the award before hundreds of his peers during the opening ceremony at NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition scheduled for April 30 – May 2 in Orlando.
Don’t Be Left Out in the Cold!
The room block for the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition at the Omni ChampionsGate Resort in Orlando, Florida is filling up fast! Don’t wait another minute to make your reservations. The number of rooms already booked indicates that the block is sure to be filled way before the April 3rd deadline. Anyone who has ever attended an NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition will tell you it is the crème de la crème of the fire sprinkler industry. You need to be there − so don’t be left without a place to stay! Click on the link for “Omni Reservations’ or call the Omni at 1.800.843.6664.
NFSA Annual Seminar “Early-bird” Registration Deadline Approaching
Registration materials for NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition are in the mail and are available by <clicking here>. With savings up to $200.00, the “early-bird” registration deadline is March 1, 2009. Also, a 50 percent discount is available to both the loyal NFSA annual seminar registrant and the newcomer. On top of that, special Contractor Management Team packages are available for only $150.00. To take advantage of these great deals, contact Michael Repko at Mrepko@nfsa.org for details.
NFSA Produces Design Technician Recruitment Video
NFSA is pleased to announce that as part of an overall design technician recruitment effort, it has completed production of a Sprinkler Design Technician Recruitment video. The video was produced to bring qualified individuals into the fire sprinkler industry and highlights those aspects of sprinkler design technician work that are unique, challenging and rewarding. While the video is scheduled to be debuted at the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando later this year, a sneak peek is available right now.
View the video Here
NFSA Web Banner Available to Members
NFSA is pleased to announce the availability of an NFSA web banner for our members to post at their websites. The banner proclaims “Proud Member of NFSA-The Voice of the Fire Sprinkler Industry” and is sent through an email with a link to the NFSA website. Members displaying the banner can make it known to all visitors to their website that their organization is a member in good standing of NFSA. Every time a visitor clicks on the NFSA web banner they will be directed to the NFSA homepage. We are hoping to not only increase membership through this initiative, but to keep the Association strong, vital and in the public eye. Every click on the web banner will raise NFSA’s appearance in search engine results. Please contact Advertising and Promotions Coordinator, Joanne Genadio at genadio@nfsa.org or 845.878.4200 ext. 118 to receive your NFSA web banner. Show your NFSA pride to all!
NFSA Manager of Codes Obtains CBCO Designation
NFSA has announced that its Manager of Codes, Jeff Hugo, recently passed the International Code Council building official exam, earning him the Certified Building Official or CBO designation. Having the CBO credential along with his other inspector and plan review certifications has qualified Jeff to become one of only a few Certified Building Code Officials (CBCO) across the country. Jeff works out of NFSA’s Essexville, Michigan office and can be reached by email at Hugo@nfsa.org.
Web Banners Add New Look to NFSA Website
NFSA is pleased to announce the addition of web banners to the NFSA home page at our website. The web banners are offered at no cost to advertisers who commit to six insertions per year of a four color, full page ad in SQ magazine. The banners are also available to members for a nominal fee of $180/month. Web banners are a great way to drive potential customers to your site. When visitors to the NFSA website click on a web banner, they are taken to the advertiser’s desired web page through a link that the advertiser supplies. The more clicks the web banner generates, the higher the advertiser rises in search engine results. We believe this to be an outstanding opportunity for all of our members. Please contact our Advertising and Publications Coordinator, Joanne Genadio at 845.878.4200 ext. 118 or genadio@nfsa.org for further information.
Get Registered for NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition Today
While winter’s wrath has made it the customary cold and blustery in Northern climes, things are really heating up at NFSA. Plans for the upcoming Annual Seminar & Exhibition have been finalized and registration materials are now available. With programming focused on industry advancement and business survival strategies, fire sprinkler contractors will find immediate value. There are “early-bird” registration discounts, and even a special reduced registration fee for contractors’ management teams. Break the winter doldrums. Plan today to meet in Orlando in April with NFSA – the fire sprinkler industry experts.
Download registration brochure here
NFSA Area Director and SAM Council Election Results In
NFSA is pleased to announce that John Kauffman III of Kauffman Company has been elected by the members in the South Central region to serve on the Contractors Council and Board of Directors. The region is comprised of the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Mr. Kauffman will be seated at the February 2009 meetings of the Board and Councils. In the Great Lakes region, Rich Ackley of Dalmatian Fire ran unopposed for another term representing contractors in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky. In the Pacific Northwest region, Jim Boulanger of Patriot Fire Protection was elected to represent contractors in the states of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. He ran unopposed and succeeds Jeff Bennett of The McKinstry Company, who did not seek re-election. Each will serve 3-year terms. In the SAM Council election, the following individuals have been elected to 3-year terms; Gary Johnson – BlazeMaster/Lubrizol; Cary Nicol – Viking SupplyNet and Donald J. Smith – Chicago Backflow.
NFSA and Common Voices Participate in D.C. Press Conference with National Fire Service Leadership
The National Fire Sprinkler Association participated with National Fire Service Leadership at historic Station 3 in a national media advisory on Wednesday, January 7, 2009. NFSA’s Associate Director of Public Fire Protection Vickie Pritchett, joined Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers, Baltimore Fire Chief James Clack and Washington, D.C. Fire Chief Dennis Rubin, United States Fire Administrator (USFA) Greg Cade, International Association of Fire Chiefs FLSS Representative Mike Love, and Dr. Burt Clark of the National Fire Academy to highlight recent tragic fires and offer solutions, which include having working smoke alarms, installing residential fire sprinkler systems, and having a fire escape plan.
View the press release
NFSA Partners with IAFC on Sprinkler Resources for Communities
NFSA is very pleased to announce that the Second Edition of the “Residential Fire Sprinklers … Step by Step Approach for Communities” guide and updated companion Look Up for Safety CD/DVD set is now available . By partnering with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the guide is being made available at no charge to fire service and community leaders. For details, contact NFSA’s Resource Center at grepko@nfsa.org.
View the full press release
Download Step-by-step guide here
Recession and the Fire Sprinkler Industry: NFSA’s “Game Plan”
There’s no question, the U.S. economy is in recession. Join NFSA President John Viniello on the morning of Thursday, January 29, 2009 as he for the first time will deliver his annual fire sprinkler industry economic forecast in a Business Thursdays online seminar format. His presentation will review what’s in store for the fire sprinkler industry for the balance of 2009 and beyond. He will also introduce NFSA’s “game plan”; Operation Sprinkler Storm – Fire Sprinklers Reigning Down, an aggressive marketing approach to further develop the retrofit, residential and inspection, testing and maintenance markets of the future. This seminar is a must for anyone involved in sprinkler industry business planning or forecasting.
ICC Board of Directors Unanimously Upholds Residential Sprinkler Requirements
December 24, 2008 - The International Code Council (ICC) Board of Directors has voted unanimously to reject an appeal by the National Association of Home Builders seeking to remove residential fire sprinkler requirements from the 2009 edition of the International Residential Code (IRC). This action, which follows a unanimous vote by the ICC Appeals Board to reject the appeal, concludes ICC’s appeals process and exhausts the final administrative option for overturning the IRC sprinkler requirements prior to publication of the 2009 edition. NAHB’s appeal had asked ICC to set aside the sprinkler requirement because of claimed procedural irregularities, including an assertion that ICC’s bylaws do not permit firefighters, particularly volunteer firefighters, to vote in the ICC process. With the appeal rejected, ICC will now proceed with publication of the 2009 IRC, which serves as the basis of regulation for new home construction in 48 states plus the District of Columbia. The new code will require fire sprinklers in all new townhouses, effective immediately upon adoption, and in all new one- and two-family dwellings, effective January 1, 2011.
Columbia, South Carolina Adopts Fire Sprinkler Ordinance
December 18, 2008, Columbia, South Carolina became the first municipality in the state to adopt an ordinance for the acceptance of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act 357. The Columbia City Council, led by Mayor Bob Coble, voted unanimously to approve the second reading Thursday morning, December 18th. The ordinance, which goes into effect immediately, deviates slightly from the Model Ordinance, allowing a local four-year tax return. A savings of 50% of the actual cost of a non-required fire sprinkler system in residential or commercial property should encourage installation. Congratulations go out to all who worked so hard to get this ordinance passed.
ICC Appeals Board Denies Homebuilders’ Claim
December 11, 2008, Patterson, New York – Earlier today the International Code Council Appeals Board met in Chicago to determine if there were any improprieties or procedural violations leading up to and during the vote by members of the International Code Council (ICC) at its hearing in Minneapolis in September that resulted in fire sprinklers being adopted into the body of the International Residential Code (IRC).’s
Manager of Codes Jeff Hugo was in attendance at the ICC Appeals Board hearing and reported this afternoon that by a unanimous vote of 3-0, the Appeals Board denied the homebuilders’ claim that the fire sprinkler industry engaged in practices in violation of ICC established procedures.
After receiving the news about the ICC Appeals Board decision, NFSA President John Viniello said, “As the fire sprinkler industry’s leading membership organization, we are extremely pleased at the outcome of this hearing. It reinforces that the members of the ICC recognize that fire sprinklers need to play an integral role in the protection of life from fire within the home.”
Read the decision here
NFSA Opens Fire Sprinkler Hall of Fame to Living Legends
NFSA is now accepting nominations to the Fire Sprinkler Hall of Fame to recognize individuals who have concluded careers of extraordinary contribution to the fire sprinkler industry. In the past, the Hall of Fame served to remember those individuals who passed on after leading lives of achievement, but beginning last year the recognition was also made available to the “living legends” who have been retired at least 3 years. All nominations for the Hall of Fame should be sent by December 31, 2008 to Diana Romano at NFSA using romano@nfsa.org or by fax to 845-878-4215.
2009 SQ Media Kit Now Available
NFSA is pleased to announce that the 2009 SQ Media Kit is now available. SQ is now offering free web banners to qualifying advertisers. Be sure to take a look at all the benefits available when you advertise in SQ. In these tough economic times, it makes sense to spend your advertising dollar wisely. SQ advertising rates are the same as they were in 2006! How many other publications can make that claim? More importantly, SQ is the benchmark publication of the fire sprinkler industry. Besides containing in-depth articles by leading experts in the field, SQ is the first place NFSA members look to find the products and services they need. Shouldn’t they be able to find you? Don’t miss out, the deadline for advertising in the Mar/Apr 2009 issue is January 1st, sign up today! Download Media Kit Here
NFSA Announces New Membership Category
NFSA is proud to announce the inception of our newest member category, Friend of the Industry. This new membership encompasses companies such as insurance agents, accountants, printers and all others that interact with, but are not part of, the fire sprinkler industry. NFSA would like to encourage its members to ask vendors they are doing business with that would fit into this category, to show their support by joining NFSA as a Friend of the Industry. For further information, call Karyn Hudgens, Director of Membership at 845.878.4200 ext. 156 or by email Hudgens@nfsa.org. Download the application here!
NFSA Top Technician Competition 2009 Starts Soon!
Yes, NFSA is having its Top Technician Competition again to find the best Fire Sprinkler Technicians in North America. Teams will be formed representing every Region and we’re looking for the best! In order to qualify for the Regional Team, you’ll have to score as one of the top three people on a two-hour exam that has multiple choice questions on NFPA 13 as well as a hydraulic calculation that you’ll have to do by hand and a small layout that you’ll have to put into a building plan. If you think you’ve got what it takes to represent your Region, please contact Top Tech Coordinator, Mike Repko, at toptech@nfsa.org or call him at 845.878.4200 ext. 120. Once you let Mike know that you’re interested, you’ll be informed of test dates and locations in your Region. Contest Rules
NFSA Brings Business Survival Strategies to Online Seminar Series
In a continuing effort to be responsive to its contractor members needs during these difficult times, NFSA is pleased to announce that as part of its Business Thursdays series of online seminars, it will feature the program “Surviving During Tough Economic Times.” Buddy Dewar, NFSA’s own economics expert, will review his top ten survival tips including contract language. Demand will be high for this extraordinarily timely topic and connections are limited. Register here! .
Congratulations! Tom
NFSA would like to congratulate Tom Lia, Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, for being named by the Illinois Fire Inspectors Association as this year’s recipient of the Dick Arthur Lifetime Achievement Award, their most prestigious honor.
NFSA Sets Technical Tuesdays Online Seminars Schedule
NFSA is pleased to announce new topics for the first half of 2009 for its acclaimed series of Technical Tuesdays online seminars. Member volume discounts are available by contacting Mike Repko at seminars@nfsa.org.
View the schedule here or order here.
Common Voices Coalition Posts PSA’s on You Tube
NFSA is pleased to announce that its Common Voices Coalition, a fire sprinkler advocacy group, has created three new 30-second public service announcements and posted them on You Tube. The first features Common Voices Facilitator Vickie Pritchett who highlights recent code changes requiring fire sprinklers in new single-family homes - View Here; the second features Amy Acton, President of the Phoenix Society, who speaks about fire sprinklers from a fire survivor’s perspective - View Here ; and the third, by Vina Drennan, addresses how fire sprinklers can impact national firefighter fatality statistics - View Here.
Meri-K Appy Conducts Side-by-Side Burn Demo on Today Show
Meri-K Appy, president of the Home Safety Council conducted a live fire and sprinkler side-by-side demonstration on NBC's Today Show on Tuesday, Oct. 14th.The live demonstration took place at Fire Sprinkler Local 281 in Alsip, IL, located next to the Alsip Fire Department. Alsip firefighters used their lines to extinguish the fire in the unsprinklered room after flashover occurred.
View Demo Here
Latest Winner of Sprinklerman©™ Photo Contest Announced
NFSA is pleased to announce that Cassidy Morris of Middletown, New Jersey is the most recent winner of the Sprinklerman©™ Photo Contest. Cassidy’s mom, Sharon, snapped the winning photo at the Somerset Defenders Baseball Game in Bridgewater, New Jersey on September14th. Cassidy and her family will receive a $50.00 Visa© gift card for their efforts. Congratulations to the Morris Family!
View the picture here
2009 SQ Media Kit Now Available
NFSA is pleased to announce that the 2009 SQ Media Kit is now available. SQ is now offering free web banners to qualifying advertisers. Be sure to take a look at all the benefits available when you advertise in SQ. In these tough economic times, it makes sense to spend your advertising dollar wisely. SQ advertising rates are the same as they were in 2006! How many other publications can make that claim? More importantly, SQ is the benchmark publication of the fire sprinkler industry. Besides containing in-depth articles by leading experts in the field, SQ is the first place NFSA members look to find the products and services they need. Shouldn’t they be able to find you? Don’t miss out, the deadline for advertising in our Jan/Feb 2009 issue is November 1st, sign up today! Download Media Kit Here
NFSA Welcomes Two New Regional Managers
NFSA is very pleased to announce effective September 23, 2008 that Timothy P. Travers has accepted the position of New England Regional Manager and effective November 1, 2008 Ronald W. Brown has accepted the position of Great Lakes Regional Manager. Tim’s region includes the states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont, while Ron’s region covers the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Full details here
IRC Adopts Residential Fire Sprinkler Requirements
An historic day in Minneapolis yesterday. The IRC Coalition was successful in having fire sprinklers required in all new Townhouses and single family dwellings as part of the next edition of the Model Code. While this still needs to be adopted at the local and state level it is a monumental achievement for our industry. The effective date for home sprinklers will be January 1, 2011.
Read the press release here
Victaulic Memo Adds to CPVC Compatibility Controversy
A memo circulated by the Victaulic Company on September 12th has added to controversy regarding compatibility of CPVC piping with the anti-microbial coatings provided for some steel sprinkler piping products. A copy of the Victaulic memo can be viewed here.
The memo cites test results that contradict those previously reported by the Allied Tube and Lubrizol companies. According to Victaulic, an antimicrobial coating mixed with water “caused a hydrostatic pressure failure rate four times faster than baselines using water alone” in CPVC piping.
Full story here
NFSA to Send Sprinkler Message Airborne
NFSA is pleased to announce that it has contracted with Sky Radio and Video Network, the largest producer of in-flight entertainment in the country, to take the fire sprinkler message to the air-traveling consumer. During the month of November, an interview with NFSA President John Viniello will be broadcast on American Airlines, USAir and the CNN Airport Network reaching a total audience of over 20 million.
Read the full story Listen to the interview here
Fleming Speaks at New Jersey Press Conference
NFSA Executive Vice-President Russ Fleming participated in a press conference held at the Bergen County, New Jersey Law & Public Safety Institute on September 5th. Fleming joined with New Jersey fire officials, firefighters and friends of the fire community to urge the state’s adoption of proposed regulations that would require all high-rises in New Jersey to install fire sprinkler protection. Coverage from The Bergen Record, along with a video of a side-by-side burn demo that was held, can be found at: http://www.northjersey.com/news/Sprinklers_save_lives_fire_officials_say.html
Winners of Sprinklerman©™ Photo Contests
The winners of the Sprinklerman©™ Photo Contests held during Sprinklerman’s©™ appearances at minor league baseball games have been announced. Parents took photos of their children with Sprinklerman©™ and emailed them to NFSA headquarters for a chance to win a $50 gift card. The winners of the Rock Cats game contest in New Britain, Connecticut were Jocelyn Davey, Lindsey Riordan, Matthew Davey and Matthew Riordan of Burlington, Connecticut. The winner of the Defenders game contest in Norwich, Connecticut was Joanna Sorge of Garden City, New York.
Defenders Winner Rock Cats Winner (photos)
Fire Sprinkler Systems Contain 2 Fires in Rochester, Minnesota
Two fires in Rochester, Minnesota were limited when sprinkler systems were able to contain flames until firefighters arrived. The first incident occurred on Monday, August 18th, in a unit of an apartment building. A pot left cooking on a stove apparently started the blaze. In the second incident, smoke began filling Kindercare Learning Center, a childcare center, about 8 a.m. the following day. Firefighters said combustible storage materials were placed too close to a water heater. The children were evacuated. The building's sprinklers put out the fire, sparing any injuries to the children or staff.
Sprinklerman® Coloring Books Available En Masse!
NFSA is pleased to announce that it is accepting orders for Sprinklerman® coloring books for use during National Fire Prevention Week 2008, October 5-11. Sprinklerman® coloring books are a great way to spread the fire sprinkler message at fire department open houses, school events and other functions held during fire prevention week or any other time of year. We have doubled the number of books in stock this year and they are available for immediate distribution. Full box orders (150 per box) will be shipped directly from our printer. Partial orders will be shipped from NFSA headquarters in Patterson, New York or may be available directly from your NFSA Regional Manager. Please refer to the form for pricing and shipping costs. Download form here.
llinois Governor Signs Fire Sprinkler Incentive Bill
On August 12, 2008, the Illinois Governor signed a bill that establishes the right for fire protection district trustees to award monetary grants to the owners of single-family homes when they install a qualifying fire sprinkler system (installed and maintained in accordance with national standards and certified locally).The bill was introduced in January 2008 and passed the General Assembly on the first attempt. Tom Lia, Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board, credits many members of the fire service for their hard work and support. Congratulations to the State of Illinois for passing this landmark legislation!
RelMark Launches Risk Purchasing Group for Fire Sprinkler Contractors
Insurance program manager RelMark has announced the launch of the Fire Sprinkler Risk Purchasing Group, a risk purchasing group dedicated to addressing fire sprinkler contractors’ general liability insurance and risk management needs. NFSA contractor members can seek membership and coverage from the purchasing group through their local insurance agent.
For more details click here.
It’s Time Again for the Sprinklerman™© Coloring Contest
Fire Prevention Week is October 5-11, 2008 and to celebrate, NFSA is having a Sprinklerman™© coloring contest. Entries will be separated into four categories based on age: 3-4, 5-7, 8-9 and 10-12. The prize for each category will be a $50 US Savings Bond. Entries must be postmarked by October 31, 2008. Winners will be notified by November 30, 2008 and published at the NFSA website, in the March/April 2009 issue of SQ magazine and other NFSA publications. View Official Rules or Contest Form.
NFSA IAF Breaks Quarter Million Mark
NFSA is very pleased to announce that the Industry Advancement Fund (IAF) now totals more than a quarter of a million dollars. The most recent contribution of $2,000 from Atlantic American Fire Equipment Company of Warrington, PA, boosted the fund to a whopping $251,000. To join others who have supported the advancement of the fire sprinkler industry through their generous tax deductible contributions, follow the link at right.
Great Plains Region Elects Postma as Area Director
NFSA is pleased to announce that Gene Postma of Western States Fire Protection Company has been elected by the members in the newly realigned Great Plains region to serve on the Contractors Council and the association’s Board of Directors. The region is comprised of the states of Colorado, Montana, Nebraska, North and South Dakota and Wyoming. Mr. Postma will be seated at the November 2008 meetings of the Board and Councils and will serve a term through February of 2012.
Sprinklerman™© Helps Spread the Word
In an effort to increase public awareness of the live and property saving attributes of automatic fire sprinkler systems, NFSA will be sponsoring Sprinklerman™© appearances at minor league baseball games in various venues throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. NFSA will be giving away Sprinklerman™© coloring books along with other promotional items. A contest will be held at each venue offering a $50 gift card to one family that emails a photo of their child with Sprinklerman™©. It is our hope that through these public appearances, the widespread acceptance of automatic fire sprinkler systems will soon become a reality.
NFSA Podcast #2 Spotlights Those Directly Affected by Fire
Visit Radio@Firehouse.com and join Vina Drennan, Amy Acton, Bonnie Woodruff, Chief Dan Jones, and Chief Ron Siarnicki as they take a look at America's fire problem and explore opportunities to learn from past tragedies.The stories of Vina, Amy and Bonnie bring to life the message that "Fire Sprinklers Save Lives" and highlight the need for cooperation and collaboration in working to affect change on our nations fire problem. Reflections of the fire that claimed the life of Capt. John Drennan in 1994 and the Chapel Hill fire that claimed young Ben Woodruff's life in 1996 bring to the forefront the need for fire sprinklers and what happens when they are not present. Amy Acton explores those who survive the fires....and adds the burn survivor piece to this powerful hour long podcast. Chief Siarnicki makes the connection to the Everyone Goes Home program, Life Safety Initiative #15, and highlights the firefighter aspect of this topic. Chief Dan Jones adds a first-person account of how the fire chief needs to be an advocate too! Click here to access the podcast: http://dynamic.firehouse.com/broadcast/
Firefighters Foundation Receives $1 Million Government Grant
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation was awarded a $1 million Fire Prevention and Safety grant. The money, which is provided through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters grant program, will go toward producing online life safety training classes and DVDs in hopes of reducing line-of-duty deaths. The classes and DVDs are placed in a kit and sent to every fire company in the country. The foundation has also created a program called "Everyone Goes Home," which aims to prevent line-of-duty deaths and injuries. The program includes 16 initiatives, such as advocacy for the enforcement of codes and the installation of home fire sprinkler systems.
Sprinkler System Averts Apartment Fire in Sanford, Maine
Firefighters said a sprinkler system saved an apartment building in Sanford, Maine from burning down. The fire at 907 Main St. broke out around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 6th. A tenant started the fire by setting off fireworks inside his third-floor apartment. The sprinklers stopped the fire from spreading before firefighters arrived. The man accused of starting the fire was treated for burns and then taken away by police.
Oliver Sprinkler Celebrates 45 Years as NFSA Members
NFSA Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager Ray Lonabaugh recently visited Oliver Sprinkler Company in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania to award company president, David Oliver with an NFSA 45-year anniversary plaque. Oliver Sprinkler is a family run business started by David’s great-grandfather, Lee Oliver, in 1957. After four generations, Oliver Sprinkler is now one of the largest sprinkler companies in the Philadelphia area.
South Carolina Lawmakers Override Governor’s Veto of Sprinkler Bill
The South Carolina House has unanimously overridden Governor Mark Sanford’s veto of a measure encouraging property owners to install fire sprinkler systems. The House voted 109-0 while the Senate applied its membership roll to an override vote without debate. The bill now becomes law and offers property owners installing sprinklers a local property tax credit equal to 25 of the cost of the fire sprinkler system and an additional 25 percent tax credit from the state. The legislation, which also limits to actual costs the tap fees from utilities for sprinkler owners, was filed after a series of tragic fires in the state, including a Greenville hotel fire that killed six, a furniture fire in Charleston last year that killed nine firefighters and a beach house fire in North Carolina last October that killed seven South Carolina college students.
Federal Government Mandates Fire Sprinklers in all Nursing Homes by 2013
The federal government is creating a five-star grading system for nursing homes and will require all nursing homes nationwide to have fire sprinkler systems by 2013. As of today, 80% of nursing homes nationwide have fire sprinklers, 15% have partial fire sprinkler systems. Older nursing homes that have escaped modern regulations that require sprinkler systems to protect residents from fire, will now have to get the systems installed, if they want to continue to serve Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. These facilities will have a five-year phase-in period to be fully compliant with the new rule.
National Fire Incident Reporting System Self-Study Now Available
The U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy announce the availability of the new National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) 5.0 Self Study (Q494) online course. Serving as an introduction to NFIRS 5.0, this self-study course provides an overview of the data collection system, its modules, and data conversion issues. More information and access to this course is available on NFA Online. Additional NFIRS-related training can be found on the USFA Web site.
Read the full story
New Fire Code Passed by New York City Council
New York City Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta joined City Council Speaker Christine Quinn on May 28, 2008 to announce the City Council had approved a new Fire Code for New York City. It replaces the existing code, which is more than 100 years old. The Code is based on the International Fire Code with amendments to address New York’s urban needs. The new code is more modern, comprehensive and accessible. Among the many changes is the new requirement that the code be reviewed every three years, to ensure amendments will be made when necessary. Other changes include requirements for fire apparatus and rooftop access in buildings as well as labeling and color-coding rooftop installations.
NFSA New Reference Book into Second Printing
NFSA’s new reference book, Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems, has been a runaway success. The first printing sold out in only nine weeks. With more than 700 pages of information, this is the most complete text ever written for the fire sprinkler engineering technician. The second printing has arrived and orders are being filled. Use the below link to order today before they are all gone.Download order form here
New York City to Overhaul Dated Building Code
For the first time since 1968, the New York City building code will undergo a comprehensive overhaul. Included in the new code scheduled to go into effect July 1, 2008 are requirements for fire sprinklers in new residential buildings with 3 or more units and one- and two-family homes over 3 stories. Also, student dormitories will be classified similar to hotels to better protect occupants with fire protection features including fire sprinklers. More details here
Water Purveyors Guide Now Available
Our public water distribution network is one of the most reliable and most commonly used sources of water for fire sprinkler systems. With six model codes now recommending the installation of sprinklers in homes, NFSA has recognized the technical importance and challenges of providing an approved water supply. NFSA now has a Water Purveyor’s Guide to assist them in preparing policies for the expansion in the number of sprinklered homes in their jurisdictions.
View the document here
American Institute of Architects
and NFSA Partner to Present Sprinkler Advantage Programs
Over
the last 5 years as part of that mission NFSA has delivered over 150 no cost
seminars to architectural students at 44 universities in 22 states. These
seminars have been so well accepted they have become part of the annual
curriculum wherever presented. The seminars contain highlights of the full
Design Advantage Seminars delivered to practicing architects nationwide for over
10 years.
Last
year, the contracted rate for the Design Advantage seminars was $3000.00 plus
the cost of the textbooks. This year, due to the receipt of a very generous
grant to promote fire protection, NFSA
can offer this seminar at no charge to AIA Chapters. It
is being offered on a very limited basis so early scheduling is a must.
The same program is also available for colleges or
universities and can be customized in length to accommodate the availability of
time within the school and instructor's schedule.
For additional information or to check for available dates Gene B. Endthoff at Endthoff@NFSA.ORG or by phone 914-414-3334.
IAFC
and NFSA Partners Issuing Guide for Adoption of Residential Sprinkler Mandates
The International Association of Fire
Chiefs and the NFSA announced that they are making available a document
titled "Residential Fire Sprinklers...A Step-by-Step Approach for Communities."
As noted by IAFC President, Chief Randy Breugman, the guide will be available
on the web sites of both organizations for easy access by the nation's
fire chiefs.
The document is structured in four booklets covering Planning and Research, Preparation, Presentation and Adoption, and Customer Service and Maintenance, Challenges and Appeals. The NFSA is indebted to the IAFC for their support of the project and to consultant Steve Hart and NFSA Director of Public Fire Protection, Jim Dalton, who worked many long hours to bring this project to completion.
Obtain the Document
Fire Sprinklers Save Lives and Money . . . The Economics of Retrofit
Fire sprinkler systems have been required for years by local codes and ordinances because they provide relatively simple, extremely reliable, affordable fire protection. But because they have been mandated by law, many building owners, architects and specifying engineers see them as an "extra" in construction. They sometimes go to great lengths to avoid sprinkler protection.
In reality, sprinklers not only provide excellent fire protection, they also represent an excellent investment opportunity for building owners. This paper will look at sprinklers from a purely monetary perspective.
Obtain the document here
Residential Fire Sprinkler White Paper
Buddy Dewar, NFSA's Director of Regional Operations, has prepared a "must read" paper on the economic and insurance perspectives of installing automatic fire sprinklers for life safety. The entire paper is available on his page in the Department Section in PDF format. If you want to have all the facts that support the need for residential fire sprinklers, this document is invaluable. If you are merely considering them for your own home, you cannot afford to miss reading Buddy's paper.
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