RESIDENTIAL FIRE SPRINKLER MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS

An NFPA 13D residential fire sprinkler system has been installed in your home, in accordance with local codes. The purpose of this type of system is to improve the chance for occupants to escape or be evacuated if there is a fire within the home.

The installed sprinklers are activated individually by heat; i.e., Only the sprinklers in the vicinity of the fire become active. In the event a fire sprinkler is activated, the alarm bell on the outside of your home will ring, alerting the occupants, at which time they should exit the home immediately.

Summarized below are maintenance and emergency procedures:

MAINTENANCE:

Under normal circumstances, your fire sprinkler system will require minimal maintenance, with exception of the following:

1. On a regular basis, observe the system’s water pressure on the riser gauge. If the gauge reads zero, contact a licensed fire sprinkler contractor for an inspection.

2. On a yearly basis, open the system test valve until the alarm bell begins to ring; a delay of 30 to 60 seconds is normal. If the alarm fails to ring after this period, contact a licensed fire sprinkler contractor for an inspection.

3. Keep the fire sprinklers free of dust build-up and any other form of debris or contamination that may impede operation. Nothing should be hung or attached to the sprinkler unit that would disrupt the spray pattern. Replace any sprinkler exhibiting corrosion or damage.

4. DO NOT PAINT THE FIRE SPRINKLERS; PAINT CAN CLOG THE SPRINKLER AND PREVENT PROPER OPERATION.

5. In the event that remodeling or construction has altered the original configuration, additional sprinklers should be installed, as required, to maintain protection level.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES:


1. In the event of a fire, the local fire department must first determine that the fire is fully extinguished. After this is determined, The fire department or homeowner must shut off the water at the sprinkler control valve or at the meter. The fire department will install a new fire sprinkler head from your spare head box normally located in the garage. (All heads must be installed with teflon tape and with wrench provided.)

2. The fire department or the homeowner must insure all repairs have been made and water must be returned to the system.
   * Close the main drain and inspectors test valves.
   * Slowly open the main control valve.
     Note: the alarm bell will sound while the system is filling.
   * Check repairs for leaks. If no leaks are present, fully open control valve.
      Inspect the entire system.

3. If additional work is required please call a licensed fire sprinkler contractor for service @ 805.58.2583