NFSA is pleased to announce the following three supplier and manufacturer members received the most votes in the recent SAM Council election and have been seated effective January 1st to 3-year terms: Buck Buchanan of HD Supply Fire Protection, Jim Henry of Potter-Roemer and Dean Taylor of Anvilstar.
View the roster here
Happy New Year!
NFSA is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Gaut as Regional Manager for the Central Region. Also, to better serve the membership, NFSA has realigned three regions. Nevada has been moved from the Mountain Region to the Southwest Region and Nebraska has been moved from the Central Region to the Mountain region. |
Click here for a complete update on the realignment.
Sprinkler System Saves City Hall in Dublin, California
A broken halogen light bulb sparked a small fire at Dublin, California’s City Hall early Tuesday morning, December 18th, 2007. The bulb ignited artificial flowers and other combustible materials in a two-foot by six-foot planter box located between the first second floors. Alameda County Fire Chief Sheldon Gilbert said that by the time firefighters arrived on the scene, the fire sprinkler system had already extinguished the blaze. The fire was determined to be accidental. No injuries were reported.
Sprinkler Save at Fort Collins, Colorado Hotel
Fire erupted at the Northern Hotel in Fort Collins, Colorado on Saturday night, December 15th just before 9:30 p.m. Fire crews arrived within one minute of receiving the call and saw fire coming from a third floor window. Firefighters stated that the fire sprinkler system in the building was a major factor in extinguishing the blaze. The fire sprinkler system was not in the building in the 1970s, when firefighters say a blaze destroyed most of the second and third floors. Thanks to the sprinkler system, the fire was brought under control in ten minutes and firefighters continued to search and ventilate the complex. The person in the affected apartment received minor injuries. No other injuries were reported. It was not immediately known what sparked the blaze.
Sprinkler Save at Louisiana Apartment Complex
A fire at the Old Church Inn Apartments in Mansfield, Louisiana, on Saturday night, December 15th, was set, either accidentally or intentionally, a state fire marshal concluded Monday. Christmas decorations sitting on a table inside a small room were ignited. A sprinkler activated over the fire and put out the flames. The fire marshal praised the fire sprinkler system for doing its job. The small fire sent the 40 tenants, most of whom are either elderly or mentally or physically challenged, to two Mansfield motels for an overnight stay. All returned to their rooms Sunday.
NFSA Industry Advancement Fund Reaches $98,000 in Pledges
In addition to pledges totaling $72,000 from Wayne Gey of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Rich Ackley of Dalmation Fire, Mark Tate of Northstar Fire Protection of Texas, Dennis Coleman of Engineered Fire Protection, Gregg Huennekens and Bruce La Rue, the NFSA is pleased to announce the following new pledges, bringing the total for the IAF to $98,000: Don Robertson of Robertson Fire Protection-$2,000, Norman J. MacDonald and Peter MacDonald of Flexhead Industries-$10,000, Walter Howard of Tri-State Fire Protection-$2,000, Todd Little of RCI Systems-$5,000, Cynthia Nicholas of Wolverine Fire Protection-$2,000 and Robert Worthington of Globe Fire Sprinkler-$5,000. Now it’s your turn! Take a moment now to join these generous supporters of the IAF by making a contribution. Simply follow the Industry Advancement Fund link at right.
Fire Sprinkler System Saves 3-story Apartment Building in Hillsboro, Oregon
Hillsboro, Oregon firefighters credited a working sprinkler system with preventing the spread of a kitchen fire at the Orenco Garden Apartments in Hillsboro, Oregon on Monday, December 10, 2007. Dispatchers received the call at about 7:15 p.m., and arriving crews found the three-story, 24 unit apartment building filled with smoke. A residential fire sprinkler confined the fire to the kitchen area of a ground level apartment, said Hillsboro Fire Department Battalion Chief Mark Prince. Neighboring tenants were able to return to their apartments shortly after the fire was extinguished and smoke removal was performed. Investigators determined the cause of the fire was unattended cooking, but because of the sprinkler system and quick notification, losses were estimated at less than $5,000.
Richard “Digger” Phelps Interview Live on Good Morning America
“Digger” Phelps, former NFSA spokesperson, basketball coach at Notre Dame, and ESPN basketball analyst will be appearing live on Good Morning America on Monday, December 17 at 8:30 a.m. e.s.t. presenting keys to the first of several new homes being built for victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, Louisiana. If time permits Phelps may be able to mention that all the homes will be equipped with residential sprinkler systems. The first one was a joint venture between Simplex Grinnell and Northstar Fire Protection of Texas. The former coach donated all proceeds of his new book, “Undertaker’s Son, Life Lessons from a Coach,” to the project. He started the Digger Phelps Katrina non-profit organization to help victims who lost their homes during Hurricane Katrina. In cooperation with many national businesses, 100% of all contributions will be used to build the homes for needy families who need a second chance by allowing them to rebuild their lives in a new, fully sprinklered home.
Sprinkler Save in Novato, California Apartment Building
Food left unattended cooking on a stove in an apartment on Marion Ave. in Novato, California, caught fire on December 12, 2007. Two occupants, including a 16-year –old girl, fled from the home. Heat from the fire activated the sprinkler system and the flames were extinguished. The home’s smoke alarm was not in place or activated, according to Novato Fire Protection District spokeswoman Sandy Wargo. She stated that it was actually sitting on the counter. The occupants, the girl and a friend, escaped without injury. Smoke was showing from the lower-level unit when firefighters arrived at the scene. The sprinklers had already extinguished the blaze.
Firefighters Push for Sprinklers in North Carolina
Dozens of firefighters from all across North Carolina were at the Building Code Council meeting in Raleigh on Monday, December 10 in support of a proposal that would allow local jurisdictions the power to require private residences to have fire sprinkler systems. Also under consideration is a state requirement that would mandate new homes larger than 3,600 square feet or taller than three stories to have sprinkler systems. That would have included the beach house at Ocean Isle that caught fire in October, killing seven college students. The North Carolina Building Code Council will hear a proposal from firefighters sometime today. The chairman of the Council expects it will then go into a committee for closer consideration.
Sprinkler Save at Cincinnati Retirement Community
Residents of a retirement community in Cincinnati, Ohio avoided serious injury, or worse, thanks to a fire sprinkler system. Fire crews were called to the Delhi Estates in Cincinnati around 1:00 a.m. on Friday, December 7, 2007. The initial call stated that there was smoke filling the second floor. When firefighters got to the scene, they reported seeing flames. Fire crews stated that the building's sprinkler system kept the fire contained. Buses were brought in to keep residents warm while crews put out the fire. Officials have not said how much damage the fire caused. No one was hurt and no residents were displaced. The fire crew credited the fire sprinkler system for keeping the blaze in check.
NFSA Adds Second Centennial Two-Week Tech Training Class
Due to the extraordinary demand for its two-week Layout Technician Training Class scheduled for February 4 – 15, 2008 in Centennial, Colorado, NFSA is pleased to announce that it has reopened registration for a second class being held over the same dates at the same location. Contact the NFSA Engineering department at 845.878.4200 ext. 149 for details.
NFSA Area Directors Issue Industry Advancement Fund Challenge
With the Industry Advancement Fund reaching $72,000, NFSA Area 5 Director Rich Ackley of Dalmatian Fire issued a challenge to NFSA members in his area to push the region’s pledges to $100,000, adding to Dalmatian Fire’s contribution of $10,000. Picking up on Ackley’s lead, Wayne Gey of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, NFSA Chairman of the Board and fund founder who has already contributed $30,000, issued a similar challenge to members in Florida.
NFSA Industry Advancement Fund at $72,000
Adding to pledges totaling $62,000 from Wayne Gey of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Rich Ackley of Dalmatian Fire, Mark Tate of Northstar Fire Protection of Texas, Gregg Huennekens and Bruce LaRue, NFSA is very pleased to announce that Dennis Coleman of Engineered Fire Protection in St. Louis has pledged $10,000, raising the total in the Industry Advancement Fund to $72,000. To join these staunch fire sprinkler industry supporters by making a contribution into the fund, follow the Industry Advancement Fund link at right.
East Carolina University to Sprinkler Dorms
The University of North Carolina Board of Governors has approved projects to sprinkler dormitories at East Carolina University. The projects are a response to a UNC System mandate. Installation of fire sprinkler systems in two dorms at ECU will start in May 2008, according to a UNC spokesperson, with work being completed by the time school starts in the fall. The Board expects that all dorms in the UNC System will be sprinklered by 2010.
NFSA Reference Book Approved by NICET for Examinations
Just two weeks ago, NICET changed its testing policy to disallow the use of any publications not listed in the “Selected General Reference” and “Relevant Standard” sections in its program detail manual. However, as of Tuesday, November 13th, NFSA is very pleased to announce that its new reference book, Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems, has been approved by NICET for use in their examinations.
Download order form here
NFSA President John Viniello Supports SC Proposed Sprinkler Bill
Commenting on the proposed fire sprinkler bill that would provide tax credits to businesses and possible home developers that install fire sprinkler systems, NFSA President, John Viniello, stated that as of now, no state provides tax credits for fire sprinklers. He said that South Carolina would be the first in the nation to lead the way.
View the story here
Recent Fires May Spur Fire Sprinkler Bill in South Carolina
There is a growing movement in South Carolina to make it easier to install fire sprinklers in businesses and homes in the wake of the tragedies this year in Charleston and Ocean Isle Beach. House Speaker Bobby Harrell said Tuesday he plans to introduce legislation that would provide tax credits to businesses — and possibly home developers — to encourage installation of sprinklers. Top officials with the Municipal Association of South Carolina, Hospitality Association of South Carolina and Home Builders Association of South Carolina told The State they support tax credits for fire sprinklers.
The bill was first proposed after the June 18 furniture store blaze that killed nine Charleston firefighters — the nation’s worst firefighting tragedy since the 2001 World Trade Center attacks. The building didn’t have fire sprinklers, nor was it required to under state law. The issue of fire sprinklers in homes has taken on new urgency since the Oct. 28 fire at a beach house in Ocean Isle Beach, N.C., that killed six USC students and one Clemson student. The house had working smoke detectors but no fire sprinklers.
Fire Sprinkler System Saves Jacksonville Processing Plant
A fire at a processing plant in Jacksonville, Florida was held in check by an automatic fire sprinkler system until the fire department could arrive. Firefighters on the scene credit the fire sprinkler system with saving the plant and although the fire took place in the middle of a busy workday, no injuries were reported.
First Pledges Made to NFSA Industry Advancement Fund
NFSA is pleased to announce that the first pledges have been made to the Industry Advancement Fund. Considering the announcement of the fund was made public to the fire sprinkler industry just a few days ago, the early response has been astounding. So far $60,000 in pledges have been made to the fund to support advancement of the fire sprinkler concept. Fund architect NFSA Chairman of the Board Wayne Gey of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers made an initial contribution of $30,000, followed by $10,000 pledges from Rich Ackley of Dalmatian Fire, Mark Tate of Northstar Fire Protection of Texas and a $10,000 personal contribution from Gregg Huennekens.
NFSA Partners with Renowned Clothier Brooks Brothers for Corporate Discount
Tired of fighting that seemingly endless traffic to the mall to buy a business suit or perhaps that special gift only to find the only available parking space is closer to your house than the store? Well it’s time to relax. NFSA has partnered with the nationally renowned clothier Brooks Brothers to make shopping for quality, classic design clothing much easier. Now NFSA members can shop online or at any one of Brooks Brothers stores nationwide and receive a 15% discount. Follow the link to register for Brooks Brothers Corporate Membership using NFSA’s identification and PIN #.
Details here!
NFSA Launches “Industry Advancement Fund” Initiative
NFSA has announced the formation of a new fund that will be used toward the advancement of the fire sprinkler concept. The Industry Advancement Fund, as it is called, is open to any and all fire sprinkler industry concerns interested in contributing into a pool of funds that will be dispersed for the promotion of fire sprinkler legislation and organizations whose goals for creating fire safe environments is similar to that of NFSA’s.
View the prospectus Make a contribution
NFSA’s Common Voices Coalition Makes Immediate Impact
In the wake of the North Carolina beach house fire that killed seven college students, the media has rushed to cover the story from every angle. As a result, yesterday a North Carolina ABC News affiliate interviewed Common Voices Coalition Advisory Board member Bonnie Woodruff, who lost her son Ben in a fraternity house fire in 1996. In addition to sharing her personal insights into how one is affected by a fire tragedy, she made very strong statements about the effectiveness of fire sprinklers in saving lives.
View the story here
NFSA Launches “Common Voices” Advocates’ Coalition
NFSA is very proud to announce its sponsorship of an advocates’ organization called Common Voices Coalition. The coalition began to form in February 2007 by bringing together advocates of fire safety who have been affected by fire but have turned tragic events into advocacy by supporting fire sprinklers.
View the press release View the introductory video
Sprinklerman™© Coloring Contest Entry Deadline Approaching
The NFSA Sprinklerman™© coloring contest is underway and contestants are reminded to get their entries in by next Wednesday, October 31. Winners in each age group will be notified by November 30, 2007 and announced in the December issue of GrassRoots and here at the NFSA website. Each winner will be awarded a $50.00 US Savings Bond. View Official Rules or Contest Form.
New Fire Codes Drafted in Montgomery County, Texas include Sprinklers
Montgomery County, Texas commissioners asked Fire Marshal Jimmy Williams to draft a fire code for commercial structures in unincorporated areas of the county. If adopted by commissioners, the fire code is expected to go into effect Jan. 1, 2008. Williams recommended making the 2006 International Fire Code, already used in buildings around the county, apply to unincorporated areas in Montgomery County as well. Williams said a fire code will help protect the patrons and employees of the more than 1,000 businesses, health care facilities and schools expected to move into Montgomery County in 2008. If the codes are adopted, fire sprinkler systems will be required in all commercial or public-use buildings and multi-family residential buildings with four or more families.
Sprinkler Save at Windsor, Connecticut Hotel
A fire broke out inside a closet in a first-floor room of the Windsor Town House Hotel in Windsor, Connecticut, on Wednesday, October 17. Workers were forced to close the hotel for about an hour and all guests were evacuated Windsor firefighters responded just after 7:30 a.m. but found that a sprinkler inside the closet had already doused the flames.
The woman occupying the room had left for work about 30 minutes before the fire started. Although the cause of the fire hasn't been determined it appears to have been accidental. Because the sprinkler had already doused the flames, once firefighters cleared the debris and performed safety checks, guests were allowed back into the hotel.
Sprinkler Saves Historic Building in White River Junction
A sprinkler system extinguished an arson fire in the basement of the historic, downtown Gates-Briggs Building in White River Junction, Vermont. The fire had begun to attack the structural timbers in the basement, which activated the sprinkler. Without a sprinkler system in place, it is almost certain the entire building and possibly several adjacent buildings would have been destroyed. The suspect or suspects had set fires in several locations in the building's basement. The Gates-Briggs Building makes up half of the main block in downtown White River Junction.
Automatic Sprinklers Save Nebraska Apartment Building, Tenants Lives
An early Monday morning fire in a first floor apartment of a five-storey Omaha apartment building was held in check by the automatic fire sprinkler system. While the fire damaged the apartment of origin, it was held under control until firefighters arrived on the scene to safely extinguish the flames. About 30 tenants were evacuated without injury.
NIST Study Shows Homeowner’s Gain with Installation of Fire Sprinkler System
A new study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that for new home construction, a multipurpose network sprinkler system that connects to a house's regular water supply and piping makes good economic sense. NIST's Benefit-Cost Analysis of Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems report, released last month, examines data from 2002 to 2005 to value the economic performance of a residential "wet-pipe" fire sprinkler system. The study builds on a prior cost analysis developed by NIST’s Building and Fire Research Laboratory and offers a current analysis of the economics of residential fire sprinkler technology.
Read full story View NFSA Response
Fox & Friends to Record Fire Prevention Week Media Event
NFSA and the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board are pleased to announce that they will be hosting a burn demonstration media event tomorrow, Friday, October 12th at 1:00 p.m. at the Bergen County fire training academy in Mahwah, New Jersey. Fox & Friends will be there recording the event for broadcast while NFSA Director of Communications David Vandeyar will be on hand to provide interviews promoting the fire sprinkler concept.
NFSA, NJFSAB Fire Prevention Week Media Event Postponed
The Fire Prevention Week media event sponsored by NFSA and the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board scheduled for today, Wednesday, October 10th has been postponed due to inclement weather. The event has tentatively been rescheduled for Friday, October, 12th. Details will be posted as they become available.
NFSA and NJFSAB Collaborate on FPW Media Event
NFSA and the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board are collaborating to sponsor a media event for National Fire Prevention Week. The event will be held on Wednesday, October 10, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. in Jersey City, New Jersey and will feature a side by side burn demonstration after which NFSA Executive Vice President Russell Fleming will provide one-on-one interviews to the local media. Details here
NFSA President Viniello Interviewed on WABC News
National Fire Prevention Week began this Sunday, October 7 and kicking off the week’s activities, NFSA President John Viniello was interviewed by WABC in New York City. The spot aired live on Eyewitness News at 7:15 a.m. EST on Sunday morning. Local ABC affiliates across the country were notified and were expected to televise the interview. Follow the link below, scroll down under ABC’s video screen to “National Fire Prevention” and click to see the actual interview.
View the interview here
NFSA Endorses GE Fleet Management Services Program
NFSA is pleased to announce it has partnered with GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services to provide its members with customized vehicle procurement and management services. With the endorsement of this program, NFSA members now have a valuable, cost-effective resource for all their fleet management requirements from vehicle leasing to comprehensive service programs. Click here for program details or contact GE’s NFSA program account representatives Katie Johnson (Katie.Johnson@ge.com) or Andrew Boyum at (Andrew.Boyum@ge.com) for more information.
It’s Time Again for the Sprinklerman™© Coloring Contest!
Fire Prevention Week is October 7-13, 2007 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 received by October 31, 2007. Winners will be notified by November 30, 2007 and announced in the December issue of GrassRoots and here at the NFSA website.
View Official Rules or Contest Form
New Jersey High-rise Retrofit Press Conference Draws Media Attention
Yesterday NFSA participated with the New Jersey Fire Protection & Prevention Association and the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board in a side-by-side burn demonstration and press conference to pledge support for proposed regulations that will require all high-rises in N.J. to be retrofit with fire sprinklers. NFSA Executive Vice President Russ Fleming addressed the gathering and was interviewed by several New York City-area television and newspaper reporters on the benefits of fire sprinklers and the positive impact of the proposed code change on lives, property and the industry.
Special recognition goes out to Vina Drennan representing the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, Vinny Fichera of the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board and Kent Mezaros, long-time NFSA member from Quick Response Fire Protection, for helping make this event a success.
View the video here
NFSA Schedules Layout Technician Training Class
NFSA has scheduled its acclaimed two-week Layout Technician Training Class for dates in New York and Colorado. The course is designed to take a person with basic knowledge of math, physical science and drafting skills and teach them to be productive basic sprinkler layout technicians. All of the work elements necessary for NICET Level II Certification will be covered by the course.
Click here for the brochure or here to register
New Jersey Proposes High-rise Retrofit Legislation
The state of New Jersey has proposed legislation that if passed would require fire sprinkler retrofit in high-rise buildings. In support of the proposed legislation, a press conference has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 19 at the Middlesex Fire Academy. Featured guest speakers will include State Fire Marshal Larry Petrillo, Vina Drennan of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and NFSA Executive Vice President, Russell Fleming, P.E.
Read the release
USC Makes No Interest Loans Available to Greeks
The University of Southern California is offering zero-interest loans to Greek organizations as an incentive to upgrade fire safety equipment in their houses. Most of the USC-owned Greek residential buildings have been updated with fire safety systems through a program the university began 10 years ago, but renovations to privately owned Greek houses were not covered. Any Greek house that is affiliated with the school and recognized by USC qualifies for the $300,000 loan program. Since last spring when the program was introduced, four Panhellenic Council sorority chapters have already secured a loan through the program: Pi Beta Phi, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Alpha Chi Omega and Gamma Phi Beta. Others are in the planning process.
Read the full story
Brookfield, Illinois Fire Department Awarded Grant
Last week the Brookfield Fire Department was awarded a $103,516 grant from the Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program. The bulk of the grant will go toward installing automatic sprinkler systems at both of the village's fire stations. The village currently does not have an ordinance requiring sprinklers for any structures, but fire officials there who would like to look into crafting an ordinance thought they would lead by example and sprinkler the fire houses first.
Read the full story
University of Nebraska Approves Fire Sprinkler Policy
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents has approved a policy that will require fire sprinklers not just in residence halls, but also university sanctioned fraternity and sorority houses within the next decade.
The decision was prompted by a fire in a fraternity house last year near the Nebraska Wesleyan University campus that killed a 19-year-old student.
University of Alabama Loan Program Benefits Greek Housing
A short time after the August 2004 fire at Alpha Tau Omega fraternity at the University of Mississippi killed three students, the President of the University of Alabama announced a program to make low interest loans available to Greek houses to upgrade safety, including the installation of automatic fire sprinklers. Since then, nine fraternities and one sorority have borrowed from the program. More are in the works.
Full Story here
Turning Tragedy into Advocacy
On Mother’s Day 1996, Bonnie Woodruff suffered any parent’s worst nightmare. She lost her son Ben in a fraternity house fire at the University of North Carolina. The 69-year-old fraternity house did not have automatic fire sprinklers. Follow the link to see how she turned this unthinkable tragedy into fire safety advocacy.
Visit the website here
September is Campus Fire Safety Month
September is Campus Fire Safety Month and Campus Firewatch is partnering with the Ohio Fire Safety Coalition for a national kick-off program on Wednesday, September 12 at Kent State University. Scheduled events will include sprinkler trailer demonstrations and burning mockups of student rooms.
Son of Former NFSA President Raymond Casey Passes Away
Richard “Dick” Casey son of former NFSA President Ray Casey passed away on the evening of August 28th following a long, courageous battle with cancer. Many NFSA members will remember Dick, who attended NFSA annual seminars in the 60’s and 70’s. Dick and his wife Pat were living in Raleigh, NC. He is survived by 4 children and 17 grandchildren.
Interment arrangements
Thinking Green? Think Automatic Fire Sprinklers
Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Chloride and Nitrogen Oxide are all atmosphere- damaging by-products of fire. Ed Comeau, editor of the newsletter Campus Firewatch has developed a new animation that may get people thinking about automatic fire sprinklers as “green” – as in, good for the planet, good for your health. Follow the link to two downloadable versions.
View animation here
Sprinklerman® Coloring Books Available for Fire Prevention Week
NFSA is pleased to announce that it is accepting orders for Sprinklerman® coloring books for use during National Fire Prevention Week, October 7 – 13. Sprinklerman® coloring books are a great way to get your company’s name out and spread the fire sprinkler message at fire department open houses, school events and other functions held during fire prevention week. To ensure delivery by October 1, all orders must be made by September 4.
Order Form
Sprinkler Save at Marriott Resort in Tucson
A fire over the weekend at the Starr Pass Marriott Resort in Tucson, Arizona forced the evacuation of 600 guests. Fire officials investigating the scene believe the fire started by spontaneous combustion, burning three linen carts in a storage room. The fire sprinkler system operated as designed, preventing the fire from spreading beyond the source allowing guests to return to their rooms the same day.
Former NFSA Industry Spokesperson Writes Book, To Donate Proceeds
Richard “Digger” Phelps, former basketball coach at Notre Dame and NFSA spokesperson now ESPN expert analyst, has written a book entitled, Undertaker’s Son: Life Lessons from a Coach. Digger grew up in Beacon, NY not far from where NFSA headquarters is now located. References in the book include mention of twin brothers John and Mario Viniello. Proceeds will go to the Gulf Coast Homebuilding Project to aid victims of hurricane Katrina. Homes are expected to be fire sprinkler protected.
Book details & ordering here
CPSC Press Conference Broadens Campus Fire Safety Awareness
A press conference held yesterday by the Consumer Products Safety Commission at the University of Maryland sought to bring awareness to a serious problem at institutions of higher learning – student fire deaths. The event was covered by a large number of media including AP, CNN and USA Today. Since January 2000 there have been 113 campus-related fire deaths. 2006-07 was the most fatal academic year on record, with 20 fire deaths.
Read more
Partnership to Expand Fire Sprinkler Presence at Fire Rescue International
The International Association of Fire Chiefs annual show, Fire-Rescue International, begins this week in Atlanta and NFSA has partnered with other fire safety organizations to spread the fire sprinkler message. In an expanded booth space this year, NFSA has teamed up with Fire Team USA, Home Safety Council, Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition and Phoenix Society to spread the word about the important role residential fire sprinklers play in preventing serious burns and tragic loss of life. The show runs August 23 – 25.
New Home Burns, Kills 3
Contrary to what anyone says, new homes do burn. A fire in a new, 6,400 sq ft waterfront home killed 3 over the weekend. Fire officials have not confirmed the cause of the blaze, but did say the house was not protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system. Unfortunately, the house was built just outside the town of St. Michaels, Maryland, where all new homes are required to have life-saving fire sprinkler systems.
Fire Sprinkler System Credited with Furniture Factory Save
A fire in a Holland, Michigan furniture factory was held in check by an automatic fire sprinkler system until firefighters arrived on the scene. A local fire official stated that the fire sprinklers helped contain the fire and that it could have been a lot worse. The company, which employs 150, was closed only briefly while the fire sprinkler systems was reset for operation. A representative of the manufacturer said the fire was not expected to slow production.
Sprinkler Save at Downtown Chattanooga Tennessee Hotel
A fire at a downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee hotel on Saturday, August 11, 2007 caused the evacuation of about 40 people. Chattanooga Fire Department spokesman Bruce Garner stated that the blaze was contained to one room on the fourth floor of the Marriott Residence Inn. A sprinkler system activated and contained the fire to the room where it began. Firefighters were then able to put it out in just three or four minutes.
Most people were allowed back in their rooms after the fire was extinguished. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
NFSA 2008 Annual Seminar Room Block Open at Atlantis
NFSA is pleased to announce the opening of its room block for reservations at Atlantis, site of the 2008 Annual Seminar. Atlantis, located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, is purported to be one of the finest family-oriented resort properties in the world. Surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, this promises to be a most memorable experience.
Hotel reservation form available here!
Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition Launches Sprinkler Smarts Website
The Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition has launched a new interactive website called Sprinkler Smarts. Targeted toward children, Sprinkler Smarts is an animated web site offering interactive games for children while also providing teaching materials to help public educators, teachers, and parents educate children. Fire safety officials can use worksheets offered on the website as well as other downloadable material in collaboration with the presentations and games. These materials help children understand fire safety and prevention as well as identify fire sprinklers and their benefits through an entertaining form of education.
Details here
TFSCA Fall Fling Set for Pigeon Forge
The Tennessee Fire Sprinkler Contractors Association – a Chapter of NFSA will be hosting its Fall Fling September 20 – 22, 2007 at the Mainstay Suites in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Golf and an excellent speaker program have been scheduled for the 3-day annual event. Room reservations can be made directly with the hotel by calling 888.428.8350. For more information, contact NFSA Southeast Regional Manager Wayne Waggoner at Waggoner@nfsa.org.
Fire Destroys Historic Library at Prep School
In the town famed for its legend of Sleepy Hollow, a weekend fire destroyed the 1903 library at Hackley School in Tarrytown, New York, just a short drive from NFSA headquarters. The school lost its entire 33,000 volume collection and a technology lab in the blaze. While other buildings on the century-old campus were protected with automatic fire sprinklers, the library was not. A school official said plans to rebuild the library will include fire sprinklers.
College Fire Safety Bill to Require Data Sharing
As college students head back to campus, Congress is poised to pass legislation that would require universities and colleges to make fire safety information available to students and parents.
The Senate recently passed the Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act that when enacted will require colleges and universities to make it easy for parents and students to learn about the institutions' protocol and policies regarding fire safety. Passage of the legislation comes as the 2006-2007 academic year ended with the deadliest school year by fire of college students.
Wesleyan University Sued Over Fraternity Fire Death
The parents of a student who died last year in a fraternity house fire have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Nebraska Wesleyan University and Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. The fraternity house did not have a fire sprinkler system because none was required when it was constructed nearly 80 years ago. Since the fire, fire sprinkler systems have been installed in buildings across campus.
First Sprinkler Save in Streamwood Home
An electrical appliance malfunction sparked a fire in a Streamwood, Illinois home. The fire activated the residential fire sprinkler system, containing the blaze to the room of origin. The fire was Streamwood’s first in a house with fire sprinklers since a 2002 ordinance required them in all new houses.
Fire Sprinklers Check Fire in Florida Hotel
Firefighters responding to a fire at the Bayside Inn in Fort Walton Beach, Florida said that the fire was kept in check by an automatic fire sprinkler system. Fire officials estimated fire damage at about $1,500. There were no injuries and the hotel remained open for business.
SQ Sep/Oct Issue to Feature Vegas Annual Seminar Wrap-up
The long awaited NFSA 2007 Annual Seminar & Exhibition post seminar review is in production and will be featured in the September/October issue of SQ magazine, the fire sprinkler industry’s oldest and most respected publication. The seminar wrap-up includes a summary of the industry’s first Top Tech competition along with a photo essay.|
Full Story Here
NFSA Area 2 Regional Seminar a Success
NFSA Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager Ray Lonabaugh reports that the NFSA Area 2 Regional Seminar held July 11 – 14 in Hershey, Pennsylvania was a tremendous success. Included in the programming were presentations from NFSA Executive Vice President, Russell Fleming, P.E., and Vice President of Engineering, Ken Isman, P.E. Ken’s presentation reviewed several problems with the NFPA 13-2002 edition and how they were corrected in the 2007 edition. Russ’ presentation was on seismic restraints. Both programs were very well received. In fact, one member said … with the delivery these guys use, they could make a presentation on watching paint dry interesting.
Reminder! Passport Requirements
The NFSA 2008 Annual Seminar is scheduled for May 14 – 17 at Atlantis in Paradise Island, Bahamas. Members interested in attending are reminded that a valid passport is required for travel to the Bahamas. Anyone who needs to apply for a new passport should do so immediately as new applications could take up to 6 months to process. Renewals could take several weeks. For detailed information about the process, follow the “Passport Requirements” link under the Atlantis photo at right.
NFSA EOD Now Stands for “Expert of the Day"
In 2003, NFSA made the commitment to having a member of the Engineering Department “on call” during the business day to answer technical questions from the membership. The title “Engineer of the Day” was assigned to that person and the name caught on. Now, to more accurately describe that individual, who is an expert on fire sprinkler systems, NFSA is changing the name to “Expert of the Day.” Same acronym – EOD, same great service.
Full Story Here
Associated Press Interviews NFSA President Viniello
Over the past weekend, NFSA President John Viniello was interviewed by the Associated Press and The Sun News who were writing articles in follow-up to recent fatal fires including the one at a Charleston, SC furniture store warehouse that killed nine firefighters. The Associated Press article was picked up by the StarNewsOnline.com. Another article was published by The Sun News.
http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com
http://www.wilmingtonstar.com
Home Safety Council Virtual Safe Home Funded by NFSA to Feature Fire Sprinklers
Due in large part to funding
by NFSA and the Sprinkler Manufacturers Industry Fund, the Home Safety Council (HSC)
will be unveiling an innovative new home injury prevention educational tool for
families this fall. MySafeHome.org will use state-of-the-art digital motion
graphics animation to bring home safety to life for virtually anyone who has
access to a computer -- at no cost to them. Full Story Here
Investigation into Charleston Furniture Warehouse Fire Continues
It’s been just over a month since a fire killed 9 firefighters in a Charleston, South Carolina furniture store warehouse. Since then there’s been much speculation about what happened, why it happened and what needs to happen to prevent a similar tragedy from happening again. The National Institute for Safety and Technology (NIST) is one of the federal agencies investigating. Their investigation could use real and computer-generated models to help determine what happened and take up to six months to complete.
Illinois Village Board May Scrap Sprinkler OrdinanceIt’s been just over a month since a fire killed 9 firefighters in a Charleston, South Carolina furniture store warehouse. Since then there’s been much speculation about what happened, why it happened and what needs to happen to prevent a similar tragedy from happening again. The National Institute for Safety and Technology (NIST) is one of the federal agencies investigating. Their investigation could use real and computer-generated models to help determine what happened and take up to six months to complete.
The Huntley, IL village board may scrap an ordinance that requires all new homes in the village to have fire sprinklers. Costs of installing and maintaining sprinklers as well as the fact that few nearby towns have sprinkler requirements have been stated as reasons for the reconsideration.
NFSA Endorses Inaugural Michael Minger Memorial Golf Classic
Seven years ago, following the death of her son Michael in a college dormitory fire, Gail Minger has been an advocate for fire sprinkler protection in student housing. To support continued advocacy of fire safety in student housing and to honor Michael’s memory, the Minger family has established the non-profit Michael’s Foundation. Its first fundraising event will held on September 10, 2007 at the Marriott Griffin Gate Resort in Lexington, Kentucky. NFSA members are urged to support this most worthy event.
Full Story Here
City Considers Sprinkler Incentive to Protect Historic District
To protect its quaint, historic district from conflagration, the small but progressive city of Grapevine, Texas is considering a fire sprinkler incentive plan that would prompt property owners to voluntarily retrofit their buildings with fire sprinklers. The estimated $1.6 million dollar project would make low-interest loans available to building owners so the work could be done all at one time. The city would pay for connections to the city water.
Full Story Here
Greenville, SC Hotel Fire Deaths’ Trial Begins Today
A federal death penalty trial begins today in Greenville, South Carolina and the focus is on fire sprinkler safety. Before reopening as a Comfort Inn in October 2003, the 15-year-old hotel in Greenville underwent a $600,000 face-lift that included new amenities but no fire sprinklers. That decision would prove fatal just four months later. Six guests, including a 15-month-old boy, died in a January 25, 2004 arson.
Full Story Here
Fire Sprinkler Debate Continues in Wisconsin
Last week the fire sprinkler debate in Green Bay, Wisconsin reached the pages of a local newspaper. It seems that a local fire official’s comments about builders’ organizations opposing fire sprinklers on cost prompted a response from the Wisconsin builders’ associations that they don’t oppose sprinklers on cost, but circumvention of the legislative process.
Follow this link to an ironic twist to the story
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
Local 669 Negotiation Update
The NFSA have been advised by Local 669 that the rank and file has ratified the agreement negotiated between the NFSA and Local 669.
SQ Sep/Oct Issue to Feature Vegas Annual Seminar Summary
Without a doubt, with attendance in excess of 1,500, the NFSA 2007 Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas at the Red Rock Resort was the best in the history of the fire sprinkler industry. In the Sep/Oct issue of SQ magazine, NFSA will publish a summary of events including the Top Tech competition along with a photo essay.
Newsweek Interviews NFSA President
As answers continue to be sought to many questions about the tragic fire in a Charleston, South Carolina furniture warehouse that killed nine firefighters, Newsweek interviewed NFSA President John Viniello to gain insight into how fire sprinklers would have influenced the outcome of this fire. The story is expected to appear at their website Newsweek.com later this afternoon and also in the next edition of the magazine.
John Viniello Interview Aired on ABC World News
In follow up to the tragic furniture warehouse fire that claimed the lives of nine firefighters in Charleston, South Carolina on Monday night, last night ABC World News aired an interview with NFSA President John Viniello. In addition to the interview in which Viniello was adamant about the necessity to provide fire sprinkler protection in all buildings, NFSA provided B-roll of a side-by-side sprinkler demonstration that was used to reinforce the position.
View the video here
Sprinkler Save in Florida Furniture Store
In stark contrast to the devastating fire in a South Carolina furniture warehouse last week in which nine firefighters lost their lives, Chief Barry Baker of the Ormond Beach, Florida fire department reports that a fire in a furniture store there last Wednesday activated three fire sprinklers, limiting fire spread to a 10’ x 10’ area resulting in only $8,000 in damage and no injuries. The company was open for business the next day.
Full Story
NFSA Area Director’s Company Honored
NFSA Pacific Northwest Area Director, Jeff Bennett, announced that his company, The McKinstry Company, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, has been recognized by Washington CEO Magazine as Washington’s best place to work. In addition to being honored at an awards ceremony at the Washington Trade and Convention Center, McKinstry is featured in the July issue of Washington CEO.
Sprinkler Save in University Laboratory
A catastrophic loss was prevented over Independence Day at the University of Washington when an automatic fire sprinkler system functioned as designed, extinguishing a fire in a chemistry laboratory that apparently started in a waste basket. There were no reported injuries. A fire officer on the scene said, “We’re glad when the sprinkler does what it is designed to do,” “It could have been a lot worse.”
NFSA Board Chairman
Named Entrepreneur of the Year
NFSA is pleased to announce that its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Wayne Gey, CEO of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers Inc., has been named by Ernst & Young as Florida’s Entrepreneur of the Year. With the state recognition comes eligibility for Ernst & Young’s national award program, the winner from which will be announced at the annual awards gala in Palm Springs, CA later this year. The overall national Entrepreneur of the Year award recipient is then considered for the world event held in Monte Carlo.
NFSA is pleased to announce that its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Wayne Gey, CEO of Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers Inc., has been named by Ernst & Young as Florida’s Entrepreneur of the Year. With the state recognition comes eligibility for Ernst & Young’s national award program, the winner from which will be announced at the annual awards gala in Palm Springs, CA later this year. The overall national Entrepreneur of the Year award recipient is then considered for the world event held in Monte Carlo.
NFSA President to be Interviewed by ABC World News
Yesterday evening nine firefighters were killed in a fire at a furniture store warehouse in Charleston, South Carolina when the roof of the building collapsed in on them. The building was not sprinklered. Seeking information about how the tragedy could have been prevented, earlier today ABC World News contacted NFSA. Within hours, NFSA was able to provide ABC World News with B-roll demonstrating the effectiveness of fire sprinklers in an actual fire scenario. Also, for a special segment to air later this evening, ABC World News is sending a crew to interview NFSA President John Viniello who is at the Marriott in Indianapolis where the NFSA Board of Directors is scheduled to meet. Charles Gibson, ABC World News anchor, will air John Viniello’s interview at 6:30 p.m. EST tonight.
NFSA Technical Tuesdays Online Seminar Series Update
The acclaimed NFSA Technical Tuesdays online seminar series continues through the second half of the year with the following schedule: Multipurpose Piping - July 17, 2007, Flammable and Combustible Liquids – Part 1 - August 7, 2007, Concealed Space Area Calculations - August 21, 2007, Smoke and Heat Vents - September 11, 2007, Cloud Ceilings - September 25, 2007, Special Considerations for Dry Systems - October 9, 2007, Flammable and Combustible Liquids – Part 2 - October 23, 2007, Spec Buildings - November 6, 2007, NFPA 25 – 2007 Update - November 20, 2007, Special Storage Sprinkler Systems - December 11, 2007. To register or for additional information, follow the “seminars” link.
Complimentary SAM Members Buyers’ Guide Listing Available
As a membership benefit, each year NFSA offers its SAM (Supplier And Manufacturer) members a complimentary listing in the Buyers’ Guide issue of its flagship publication SQ magazine. The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 16, 2007. For a modest fee, a listing can be enhanced with a corporate logo. For more information, SAM members should contact NFSA Publications Coordinator Joanne Genadio at genadio@nfsa.org.
SQ magazine reaches the fire sprinkler industry’s top decision makers in every major market across the U.S. Through affiliate fire protection organizations it also receives distribution in over 25 countries on six continents. This year’s Buyers’ Guide issue will receive bonus distribution at the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas and the NFPA annual meeting in Boston.
Fire Team USA Workshop Tour to Reach 12 States in 2007 and 2008
Fire Team USA received notification from the 2006 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that their grant in the amount of $752,052 was funded. Vickie Pritchett will serve as project manager of the grant. Vickie will be working with Jim Dalton, NFSA Director of Public Fire Protection, Wayne Waggoner, NFSA Southeast Regional Manager, Shane Ray, NFSA Associate Director of Public Fire Protection, and the NFSA training division to deliver the Fire Team USA workshop to 12 states in 2007 and 2008 to include: Washington, Massachusetts, Missouri, California, Nevada, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.
More info available here
SQ Magazine to Feature Northernmost Sprinklered Building
The July/August issue of SQ Magazine will feature the northernmost building on earth protected with an automatic fire sprinkler system. The Svalbard Science Centre completed in 2006 is located just above 78 degrees north latitude, making it by just a minute or two, north of the second northernmost sprinklered building, which also happens to be in the same town.
NFSA 2008 Annual Seminar Golf Tournament Set
NFSA has announced that the golf tournament to be held in conjunction with its Annual Seminar next year at the Atlantis on Paradise Island, Bahamas has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 14 at The Ocean Club. The event will begin with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. There are very limited golf opportunities on the island so NFSA is asking anyone who may be interested in playing to send a brief message to John Viniello (Viniello@nfsa.org) so preliminary plans can be made to accommodate everyone.
Globe Recalls Model J Dry Sprinklers
Earlier this week the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that in cooperation with Globe Fire Sprinkler Corporation a voluntary recall of the Globe Model J Series Dry Fire Sprinklers has been issued. Prior to the announcement, Globe had received five reports of sprinklers that failed to operate as intended during a fire. There were no reports of related injuries. For additional information, contact Globe at 800.248.0278 or visit their website at www.globesprinkler.com.
NFSA Set to Exhibit at NFPA World Safety Conference
Being one of the greatest contributors to the NFPA consensus standards-making process, NFSA always looks forward to participating at the NFPA World Safety Conference & Exhibition. Show hours for this year’s event being held at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center are 3:30 – 7:30 p.m., Sunday, June 3; 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday, June 4 and 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 5. NFSA Communications Director David Vandeyar and Membership Director Karyn Hudgens will be greeting guests in booth #600.
Violin Virtuosity – NFSA Annual Seminar Awards Banquet CD Available
Anyone in attendance at the NFSA annual seminar awards banquet in Las Vegas was treated to an extraordinary experience by renowned entertainer Jimmy Hopper. To give those who were there the opportunity to relive the experience and for those who couldn’t be there but heard about it, NFSA is making a limited supply of concert CD’s available for only the cost of shipping. For the aspiring young musician at home, this is a must for the library.
Download order form here
NFSA 2006 Annual Report Now Available
The NFSA’s 2006 Annual Report is now available. 2006 was a very good year for the fire sprinkler industry with much of its success attributable to the work of NFSA and its members. The 2006 Annual Report highlights by department the work of the association throughout the year and those advances made on behalf of the industry. The report also recognizes members who volunteered their time to work on committees dedicated to advancing the fire sprinkler concept.
Download the report here
ICC Rejects Sprinklers in IRC, Gains Made
While the ICC rejected single-family fire sprinkler requirements for the IRC supplement, at the conclusion of yesterday’s vote in Rochester, NY it was obvious tremendous gains had been made in broadening the Council’s awareness of fire sprinkler value and benefit. Despite getting a majority 56% of the vote to overturn the committee, it was not the 2/3 majority needed to pass. In attendance along with an impressive coalition of the fire services, contractors and suppliers were NFSA Chairman of the Board Wayne Gey and members of the NFSA staff. Sprinkler gains in the model building codes come through an evolutionary process in which NFSA is well versed. Today, the process continues for hearings 18 months away.
Bill Will Sprinkler Missouri Group, Assisted-living and Long-term Care Homes
Following a November 2006 guest house fire in Anderson, Missouri, the state is moving to require most group homes, assisted-living homes and long-term care homes to have fire sprinkler systems as protection for their residents in addition to other fire-safety features. A bill introduced by Rep. Kevin Wilson, R-Neosho calls for fire-alarm systems to be in place by 2008 and fire sprinklers to be installed by 2012. The bill passed the Senate and House and is expected to be signed by the Governor.
Valentine and Somers Promoted at NFSA
NFSA is very pleased to announce effective June 1, 2007, Victoria Valentine, P.E. has been promoted to Director of Product Standards and Deborah Somers has been promoted to Events Planning Manager. Victoria joined the NFSA engineering staff right out of WPI in June 2000. She was also recently named Associate Technical Director of the International Fire Sprinkler Association. Now 6-1/2 years into her second stint with NFSA, Deborah has served NFSA in a number of capacities including Assistant to the Vice President of Labor Relations and most recently Communications Coordinator. In her new position she will have additional responsibilities in planning meetings including the NFSA Annual Seminar and the IFSA International Fire Sprinkler Conference & Exhibition.
NFSA Appoints Bob Kleinheinz Regional Manager
NFSA is pleased to announce the appointment of Bob Kleinheinz as Regional Manager for the newly formed region of Illinois. Bob comes to NFSA with nearly 25 years of fire service experience, most recently as Assistant Chief in charge of the Fire Prevention Bureau for the Libertyville, Illinois Fire Department. Bob’s contact information is: 509 Dawes Street, Libertyville, Illinois 60048; phone: 914.671.1975; email: Kleinheinz@nfsa.org.
NFSA Breaks All Time Attendance Record in Las Vegas
Everyone in attendance at the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas just knew they had been a part of something special but at the time nobody knew just how special. Well, after the final numbers were tallied, this year’s world-class Annual Seminar & Exhibition registration exceeded 1,500, making it by far the largest fire sprinkler industry event in history. The smiling faces in photos at the below links tell the entire story.
| Around Las Vegas | General Session |
| Banquet | Top Tech Competition |
| Exhibition | Workshops |
Announcing the Campus Firewatch Buyer’s Guide!
Campus Firewatch has announced the launch of an online Buyer’s Guide that focuses exclusively on campus fire safety. This is an invaluable resource for professionals looking for products or services that are used on campus to address complex day to day issues. Ranging from suppression and detection systems to professional engineering services, this new website is committed to meeting the needs of the campus fire safety professional.
NFSA to Raffle Registrations to 2008 Annual Seminar
One of the items distributed to registrants at this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas was an Event and Organizational Survey. As incentive to every member in attendance who fills one out and returns it to NFSA, each will be entered into a drawing for complimentary registration for the 2008 Annual Seminar at the Atlantis in Paradise Island, Bahamas. Completed surveys should be faxed to 845.878.4215 no later than May 15, 2007.
Florida Nips Northeast in Top Tech Championship in Las Vegas
In the first ever Top Technician competition held in conjunction with the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas last week, the team from the Florida region battled to victory. Through very close competition in the elimination rounds held before record attendance during the exhibition opening on Thursday night and the finals on Friday afternoon, every one of the twelve teams representing the U.S. and Canada played with a high level of intensity and confidence. Congratulations go out to team Florida members Rudd Milam, Ray Vance, Ricardo Vasquez and Gene Grant who held on in the finals to defeat the very tough Northeast team of Brian Baima, Michael Mackey and Marc Ruggiero.
New Sprinkler Law Takes Effect in Ventura County, California
A new ordinance requiring fire sprinkler protection in new homes and businesses went into effect in Ventura County, California on May 1, 2007. Although the new Ordinance 25 does not require retrofitting for sprinklers in pre-existing buildings, if any renovations increase a home's floor space by more than 50 percent, sprinklers will need to be added. Businesses that increase floor space by more than 25 percent must also install sprinklers. The Ventura County Board of Supervisors and other local governments, including Simi Valley, Port Hueneme, Ojai, Thousand Oaks, Camarillo and Moorpark adopted Ordinance 25 on the recommendation of the Ventura County Fire Department last year. A similar fire sprinkler requirement already exists in the cities of Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Paula, and in many counties throughout California.
Louisiana Nursing Home Saved by Sprinkler System
Fire broke out in a resident’s room in a Baker, Louisiana nursing home on Wednesday, May 2, 2007. 92 residents were evacuated by the staff. No injuries were reported. Police Department spokesman Capt. Randall Dunaway said a man with mental problems is suspected of starting a fire in a cabinet used for storing clothing. Thick smoke was pouring from the area where the fire began when police and firefighters arrived. One fire crew tackled the blaze, while another went from room to room in the wing to be certain no one had been left behind during the evacuation. The fire was confined to the cabinet, but the heat activated the building’s sprinkler system. The sprinkler system kept the fire from spreading and kept estimated damages between $15,000 and $20,000.
Sprinkler Save at Vanguard University in California
A fire on the Vanguard University campus in Costa Mesa, California scorched a third-floor dorm room this weekend, authorities said. Costa Mesa firefighters responded to a call of a fire at the University on Sunday, April 29, 2007, Fire Battalion Chief William Kershaw said. The flames were extinguished by the indoor sprinkler system before firefighters arrived, Kershaw said. Students were evacuated from the building and no one was injured.
Sprinkler Save in Nashua, New Hampshire
Fire struck a Nashua, New Hampshire manufacturing plant on Monday, April 30, but the building's sprinkler system kept the blaze in check until firefighters were able to put it out, the Nashua Fire Rescue department said yesterday. The fire at the WH Bagshaw Co. Inc., was first reported about 11 a.m. Fire crews arriving found smoke had spread throughout the mill building, which is located near the Nashua River. However, the fire, which apparently started in a storage area, hadn't spread far because the sprinkler system kept it in check. Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire, which had been smoldering inside the first-floor ceiling. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is investigating what caused the blaze.
Indiana to Retrofit Sprinklers in Health Care Facilities
Late last week Indiana Governor Daniels signed Senate Enrolled Act 93, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton). The measure will require nursing homes and other health care facilities to install automatic fire sprinkler systems before July 1, 2012. If a system is not installed before July 1, 2010, a plan for completion must be submitted to the State Department of Health. In addition, the bill states that a working smoke detector must be in each resident's room.
Just 6 Days to NFSA Las Vegas Extravaganza
Before the first steed clears the gate at “The Derby” or the “Pretty Boy” or the “Golden Boy” throws the first crisp jab, NFSA will already be two days into an extravaganza of its own – its Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas. With the exhibition of over 110 booths sold out for months and over 1100 pre-registered for the conference – both are records –the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition will be a world-class event to remember. It’s still not too late to register!
e-TechAlert Bulletin Valuable NFSA Member Benefit
NFSA’s e-TechAlert bulletins are sent out to the membership by way of email every Tuesday morning when no Technical Tuesday online seminar is scheduled. The e-newsletter provides timely, clear focus on technical issues affecting fire sprinkler contractors and is edited by Russell Fleming, P.E., NFSA’s Executive Vice President. All NFSA members interested in receiving the e-TechAlert bulletin are reminded to keep their email address current with mrepko@nfsa.org. This is a service provided exclusively to NFSA members.
Sprinkler Save
A small store in a strip mall caught fire yesterday morning. Firefighters found smoke coming from the store Sweet 'n Spice located at 3500 South and Redwood in Salt Lake City, Utah. Authorities said the fire sprinkler system put out the flames, which started in a shelving area. There was no damage to any of the other businesses in the mall.
Maui Fire Department Demonstrates Fire Sprinklers on Moloka’i
Personnel from the Maui Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau were on Moloka'i over the weekend to provide keiki identification cards for children 12 and younger. The cards include messages designed for children to remind them about fire safety. Firefighters were on hand to answer questions about how the County's fire code affects building permits. A feature of the event was the department's Fire Safety Trailer, a 39-foot-long trailer designed to demonstrate how fire sprinklers in a home operate in a real fire.
Free Informational Residential Sprinkler Web Cast Scheduled
The International Residential Code (IRC) Fire Sprinkler Coalition has announced plans to host a free educational Web cast on home fire sprinklers. The program will broadcast on Thursday, May 3, 2007, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. It aims to inform code officials and others about the important fire safety features residential fire sprinklers bring to homes. Details here
Buildings Magazine Features Sprinkler Reliability Article
After teaching a training seminar in Boston on NFPA 25, NFSA Director of Technical Services Cecil Bilbo received a call from the Managing Editor of Buildings magazine. She was interested in writing an article about how to ensure fire sprinkler system reliability for their readership that is in large part building owners and property managers. Link here to the article.
Read the article here
Only Two Weeks and Two Days to Go
There are only two weeks and two days to go before the start of what will be the largest annual seminar and exhibition in NFSA history. To make the onsite registration process go as smoothly as possible, everyone attending including exhibitors is reminded to send in their registration forms so badges can be made in advance. As a reminder, without exception, member exhibitors are entitled to one full and one exhibits only badge per booth space.
NFSA/669 Negotiations Update
On April 14, 2007, the NFSA and Local 669 have reached a tentative agreement, subject to ratification by the union membership, on a new 3 year agreement.
Details will be forthcoming this week.
Jefferson City Bill Would Require Fire Sprinklers
All nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in Missouri would be required to install fire sprinklers under a bill that received initial House approval this week. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Kevin Wilson, a Neosho Republican, follows a fire in November at an Anderson group home that killed 10 residents and one employee. The facility had working fire alarms but no fire sprinklers.
Read the full story
Training Grants Available Through Workforce Investment Areas
There are opportunities available as a result of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that will pay for employee training classes that meet grant criteria. To find out if funding is available in your area (and it should be), do a Google search of Workforce Investment Grants and your state name. This will provide the information regarding local Workforce Investment areas and the agencies that distribute the funding. You can then contact them directly to secure grant applications and seek the awards.
NFSA Announces Technical Tuesdays Online Seminar Topics
NFSA is pleased to announce Technical Tuesdays online seminar topics for the second half of 2007.
|
July 17 |
Multipurpose Piping |
|
Aug 7 |
Flammable and Combustible Liquids – Part 1 |
|
Aug 21 |
Concealed Space Area Calculations |
|
Sept 11 |
Smoke and Heat Vents |
|
Sept 25 |
Cloud Ceilings |
|
Oct 9 |
Special Considerations for Dry Systems |
|
Oct 23 |
Flammable and Combustible Liquids – Part 2 |
|
Nov 6 |
Spec Buildings |
|
Nov 20 |
NFPA 25 – 2007 Update |
|
Dec 11 |
Special Storage Sprinkler Systems |
NFSA Introduces New Textbook: Layout, Detail and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems
NFSA announces the publication of a new textbook, Layout, Detailing and Calculation of Fire Sprinkler Systems. With more than 700 pages of information, this is the most complete text ever written for the fire sprinkler engineering technician. Written by the NFSA Engineering Department staff and edited by Kenneth E. Isman, P.E., Vice President of Engineering, this text covers every aspect of determining the necessary details for a fire sprinkler system including: hazard classifications, sprinkler spacing, hanger and brace requirements, hydraulic calculations, water supplies, pumps and tanks. The text also contains a significant review of basic math and physical science that is helpful to the user in understanding the scientific principals behind the requirements that need to be followed.
Download the order form here
NFSA Announces Workshop Topics for Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas
The “early-bird” registration deadline for NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas was this past Sunday and when all the registrations that poured in over the weekend had been tallied on Monday morning, the total was astounding – over 970 pre-registrants! Those in attendance will have the opportunity to participate in one of the most comprehensive fire sprinkler industry workshop programs ever assembled by NFSA.
Complete workshop topics list available here
Jim Dalton Receives Fire Safety Educator Award at CFSI Dinner
NFSA is very proud to announce that the Home Safety Council awarded the
inaugural Dr. Anne W. Phillips Award for Leadership in Fire Safety Education to
its Director of Public Fire Protection, Jim Dalton. Jim received the award
during the Congressional Fire Services Institute’s National Fire and Emergency
Services Dinner in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, March 29, 2007. Read the full story
Congressman Langevin Reintroduces Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) today reintroduced his Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2007, which creates tax incentives for property owners to retrofit buildings with automatic fire sprinkler systems. Similar legislation was first introduced in the 108th Congress. This legislation would reduce the tax depreciation time on nonresidential real property from 39 years to only 5 for those that install sprinklers. Benefits of this legislation also include lower local fire department costs, increased loan activity, reduced insurance claims and premium costs and increased retrofitting and installation jobs.
Houston Fire Deaths Show Need for Complete Sprinkler Protection
The fire in a 6-story medical office building that claimed three lives in Houston, Texas, on March 28, 2007, demonstrates the need for complete automatic sprinkler protection throughout buildings. News reports indicate that the building, constructed 22 years ago, contained a fire sprinkler system in its atrium lobby area, but not in the fourth floor medical offices in which the fire took place. Without sprinklers available to prevent the growth of the fire, heat and smoke spread throughout the top three floors of the building, preventing the escape of building occupants.
Read the full story
XL Insurance, RelMark offer Fire Sprinkler Contractor Insurance Program
Greenwich Insurance Company, an XL Capital Ltd. insurer ("XL Insurance"), has announced a new underwriting agreement with RelMark Program Managers to provide a comprehensive program designed especially for fire sprinkler contractors. RelMark's program is designed to offer broad insurance coverage to fire sprinkler contractors for their standard operations including design, fabrication, installation, service, repair, testing and inspection of fire sprinkler systems. Contact RelMark at www.relmark.net for more information.
Florida Approves NFSA’s Foam Water and Advance Pump Seminars for CEUs
NFSA is pleased to announce that its in-class seminars Foam Water Systems and Advanced Fire Pump Layout Procedures being held in conjunction with the 2007 Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas have been approved for 4 CEUs each by the state of Florida. Contractors interested in registering for these two new ˝ day seminars should do so immediately as space is limited and demand is expected to be very high. Registration information can be found at the “NFSA Annual Seminar Registration Brochure” link at right.
Personal Assets Protection Workshop to Highlight NFSA Annual Seminar
NFSA is very pleased to announce that Mr. G. Kent Mangelson, CFP Senior Advisor, will be conducting a workshop at this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas entitled “Cutting Edge Strategies on Asset Protection, Tax Reduction and Estate Planning. As a recognized expert in the area of asset protection, Mr. Mangelson has authored several publications and training manuals on the subject including the “Advanced Tax and Asset Protection Training Manual”. As one of the nation’s top asset protection advisors he has spent over 25 years helping professionals properly structure themselves for lawsuit protection, tax reduction and estate planning. He has been credited with helping people save millions of dollars. Contractors won’t want to miss this one!
NFSA Annual Seminar Golf Tournament Update
Please take note; there will be two golf tournaments in conjunction with this year’s event in Las Vegas. In light of some conflicting information, there will be Couples Medal Play Tournament held at Bear’s Best Golf Club. At the same time, there will be a Medal Play Tournament held at TPC at the Canyons. Both tournaments will take place Saturday, May 5 and have a shotgun start at noon. All players should be full conference registrants. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to telephone NFSA.
Northbrook and Lake Bluff, Illinois Pass 13D Ordinances
Northbrook and Lake Bluff, Illinois have become the 42nd and 43rd municipalities respectively in the state to pass residential fire sprinkler ordinances requiring fire sprinkler systems in all new single-family homes. Only the state of California has more municipalities with single-family sprinkler ordinances.
Great NFSA Annual Seminar Sponsorships Still Available
Exhibitors at this year’s upcoming exhibition still have an opportunity to expand their company’s exposure beyond the show floor by reserving one of the many exclusive sponsorships NFSA has made available. With more than one and a half times the number of guest rooms booked compared to the 100th Anniversary Celebration in New York in 2005, this exhibition is shaping up to be the largest event of its kind in the history of the sprinkler industry. For detailed information about this year’s sponsorships, NFSA exhibitors are encouraged to check the “Sponsorship Opportunities” link at right.
Robert “Mac” McLeod Receives Coveted Golden Sprinkler Award
March 5, 2007 - The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) is pleased to announce that this year’s Golden Sprinkler Award recipient is Robert “Mac” McLeod (ret.). Bob McLeod, who retired from NFSA in 1999 after 15 years of dedicated service will accept the award at a special presentation on Thursday, May 3 at NFSAs Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas.
Following an impressive career with the fire services in the state of Florida, Bob “Mac” McLeod joined the NFSA team in 1984 as a Regional Manager. Over the years Mac tirelessly served the NFSA and its membership with everything from NICET exam preparation education to representing the fire sprinkler industry in the building code arena as a member of the SBCCI Fire and Life Safety Committee. Mac later was to become
NFSA’s first Director of Training and Education. Following this, Mac switched gears and was promoted to the position of Director of Regional Operations and later went on to become Vice President responsible for supervising the activities of the Association’s Regional Managers located across the nation.
Commenting on the announcement, NFSA President John Viniello, "Bob's energy, enthusiasm and belief in fire sprinklers was contagious throughout his career in the fire services and NFSA. He was a "doer" in every sense of the word and a credit to this Association and our Industry. He represents the very best of what the Golden Sprinkler Award stands for."
NFSA Las Vegas Exhibition a Complete Sellout!
With exactly 9 weeks left before this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, booth space for the exhibition has completely sold out. The unprecedented early sellout comes in anticipation of this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition being the best attended ever. With total guestrooms pickup from both conference hotels this year being nearly double the previous best, pre-conference registrations are expected to be well in excess of 1000. Conference registration information can be found by following the link under the hotel photo at right.
Contestants Announced for First NFSA Top Tech Competition
The tests have been given, the grades are in and the successful contestants have been notified of earning a spot on a team to represent their region in NFSA’s first Top Tech competition. The Top Tech competition, being held in conjunction with NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas May 3 - 4, will pit teams from all over the U.S. and Canada in a contest for great prizes and perhaps more importantly, bragging rights as the fire sprinkler industry’s top layout technicians. Check the link for a complete list of teams with a shot at this year’s Top Tech title.
View Team Lists here
NFSA Announces Second Annual Seminar Hotel
NFSA is very pleased to announce that due to overwhelming demand for guest rooms in Las Vegas for its Annual Seminar & Exhibition being held at the Red Rock Resort May 3 – 5; it has selected the J.W. Marriott as a second conference hotel. Members interested in attending what is expected to be the largest conference and exhibition in the history of the Association should make hotel reservations immediately by contacting the J.W. Marriott at 702-869-7777 using the Code # NFS to get into the NFSA block at the discounted rate.
NFSA Exhibition Nearly a Sellout!
With still 10 weeks to go before this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, booth space for the exhibition is nearly sold out. Reservations have been made at record pace and only a few booths remain. Suppliers interested in reaching what is expected to be a record attendance of fire sprinkler contractors, especially those NFSA SAM members who have not already contracted for space, should contact NFSA show management immediately at 410.997.0763.
NFSA Appoints Bowman Florida Regional Manager
NFSA is pleased to announce that it has appointed David Bowman Florida Regional Manager. David has been with NFSA since January 2006 and presently serves as Regional Manager in the Great Plains Region. When the Florida Regional Manager position opened late last year, David applied and has since been enthusiastically approved by the Florida Fire Sprinkler Association – A Chapter of NFSA Board. He will be relocating from Missouri to Florida and will begin in his new position effective April 1, 2007. He will be working with NFSA Director of Regional Operations Buddy Dewar, who is located in Tallahassee, to effect a smooth transition into his new responsibilities.
Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2007 Introduced in Senate
Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR) and Senator John Rockefeller (D-WV) teamed up last week to introduce the Senate version of the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2007 in the 110th Congress. It is hoped that the recent significant reduction in the “score” of the bill by the Joint Tax Committee will aid in getting the bill out of committee and eventually passed by the Senate. NFSA Director of Public Fire Protection Jim Dalton, who has spent the past four years coordinating the combined efforts of many allied support groups in an effort to pass this landmark fire protection legislation, has been working for several weeks with the Congressional Fire Services Institute and staff of Senator’s Smith and Rockefeller to prepare the legislation for re-introduction.
Renowned Entertainer Jimmy Hopper Set to Amaze NFSA Annual Seminar Registrants!
In an event that is sure to be a “grand finale,” Jimmy Hopper will be the highlight of the evening’s entertainment at the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition awards banquet to be held Saturday, May 5. Nationally known entertainer, Jimmy Hopper, has been singing in front of audiences since he was three. After deciding to make entertaining his career, he spent four years as the headliner at the Bellagio before taking the show on the road. Jimmy has toured the U.S. playing at such diverse venues as Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, New England’s Big E music festival, and Mohegan Sun. His accolades include Pop Vocalist of the Year by the Boston Steinway Symphony Group, Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year by Gaming Today, and Performer of the Year by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
A very unique sponsorship opportunity is being offered only to NFSA members. Please follow the link to learn more.
Annual Seminar Registration Brochure in the Mail!
Registration materials for this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition being held May 3 – 5 at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas are in the mail. The Red Rock Resort boasts spectacular views of its name sake Red Rock Mountains and the famed “Strip.” Upon arrival guests will be immersed in first-class amenities in this incredible no-expense-spared, $925 million dollar hotel. Guests will love the oversize guest rooms that include fluffy, down pillows, Egyptian cotton sheets, 42" plasma televisions, private bars, marble baths with soaking tubs, dual sinks and the latest in technology, including IPOD docking stations. Ladies, prepare to be pampered.
Check the links at right for hotel reservations, sample internet airfares and special contractor management team registration discounts.
NFSA Sponsored Residential Sprinkler Podcast Begins Today
Just during the period of February 6 to February 11, six fires killed 19 children and 9 adults and, within the last month, at least 65 people have been killed in fires where over half of the victims were children. States and communities are starting to face an increased rate of fire deaths, particularly in fires that kill three or more people in each incident.
To provide fire departments with ideas and resources in addressing the problem, Radio@Firehouse.com (www.radiofirehouse.com) is hosting an NFSA-sponsored Podcast focusing on catastrophic multiple-fatality fires. The program will be moderated by Ed Comeau, publisher of Campus Firewatch, and features a diverse panel of experts.
NFSA Offers Free On-line Seminar on IRC Code Issues
For the first time in the history of the International Residential Code (IRC), there is a real possibility that mandatory sprinkler requirements for one- and two-family dwellings could become a part of that code. To help support passage of these requirements at the IRC Final Action Hearing taking place on May 21 – 26, 2007 in Rochester, New York, NFSA is offering a FREE educational on-line seminar on Friday, March 9, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. EST to better inform the sprinkler industry of its strategy to educate Fire and Building Officials and urge their attendance at the code hearing.
Read complete information here.
NFSA to Sponsor Firehouse.com Podcast
NFSA is pleased to announce it has agreed to sponsor a residential fire sprinkler Podcast on Firehouse.com. Host for the online event will be Ed Comeau, Editor of the newsletter Campus Firewatch. Ed’s guests on the one-hour program will be Heather Caldwell, Kidde; Judy Comoletti, NFPA; Ben May, Disney; Ozzie Mirkhah, Las Vegas Fire Department; a representative from the National Association of State Fire Marshals and Peg Paul of the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition. The program is set to air Tuesday, February 13th at 2:00 pm EST. Visit online at www.radiofirehouse.com for details.
Residential Fire Sprinkler Concept Needs Building and Fire Officials Support
It is alarming that over 3000 people in the U.S. die each year from fire - most of them in their own homes. The solution is implementation of wide-sweeping requirements for residential fire sprinklers. To help move the process, NFSA members should ask their local building and fire officials to attend the upcoming International Code Council Final Action Hearing scheduled for May 22 – 25, 2007 in Rochester, New York and vote to modify the International Residential Code to require fire sprinklers in all residential structures. Follow the “Sprinkler Info” link at left to articles on the subject.
Annual Seminar Registration at Record Pace, Golf Tournaments Filling
Since registration materials for NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition scheduled for May 3 - 5, 2007 at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas were mailed to the membership a little over a week ago, registrants are signing up at record pace. And even though there will be two golf tournaments this year – couples scramble and medal play round – slots in both are filling much earlier than in previous years. Registration for either tournament is limited to full registrants so members who would like to play in either tournament are encouraged to get their registration forms in right away. A wait list is not far in the offing.
Save the Dates! - 7th International Fire Sprinkler Conference & Exhibition
Radisson SAS Scandinavia, 24 – 25, June 2008 - Copenhagen, Denmark
Sprinklers May Have Saved Fire Victim
Toronto firefighters have sounded the alarm on residential fire sprinklers after an elderly woman became trapped and died in her home early Monday morning. Heat and smoke were so intense it prevented firefighting crews from entering the house in time to save the victim. District Chief Mike Strapko said a sprinkler system would have gone a long way toward bringing flames under control until firefighters got there.
He pointed to Vancouver as example where they haven't had a fire death in a home with sprinklers since 1990, the year when the city enacted their sprinkler laws on all new homes and houses under major renovations.
Sprinkler Save
A fire started by electrical wiring in a toaster in an employee break room at the Hertz Equipment Rental business in Rohnert Park, California was contained by fire sprinklers said local officials. Fire damage was limited to under $10,000 and the business was able to resume normal operations the same day.
Fatal Fire Prompts Review of Fire Code
It’s been several weeks since a fire at Paradise Garden apartments killed two and injured at least 26 others. Since then City Council members in the City of Long Beach, California have been asked by planning and fire officials to consider revamping the city’s fire code to include fire sprinklers in a variety of new and existing occupancies including new multifamily housing, hotels and motels. In addition, if approved, new single-family homes and duplexes over 4000 square feet or over two stories in height would also have to be sprinklered.
NFSA Annual Seminar Sponsorships Available
As in past years, NFSA will again this year be offering sponsorships for various functions being held in conjunction with this year’s annual seminar and exhibition in Las Vegas. A detailed list will be posted here tomorrow (January 31) about noon EST for member companies interested in getting additional exposure off the trade show floor. Last year’s sponsors will have until then to contact Debby Somers to reserve what they sponsored last year before it is made available to the general membership. Check the link at right for details.
Registration Brochure in the Mail!
NFSA is pleased to announce that the registration brochure for this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition being held May 3 – 5 at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas is in the mail to every member.
The Red Rock Resort boasts spectacular views of its name sake Red Rock Canyon and the famed “Strip.” Upon arrival guests will be enveloped in lavish furnishings and surrounded by opulence. Families will enjoy the oversize guest rooms that include fluffy, down pillows, Egyptian cotton sheets, 42" plasma televisions, private bars, marble baths with soaking tubs, dual sinks and the latest in technology, including IPOD docking stations.
Check the links at right for hotel reservations, sample internet airfares and special contractor management team registration discounts.
Congressman Pascrell Acknowledges NFSA, Others Contributions
Last week Congressman Pascrell reintroduced The Campus Fire Safety Right to Know Act of 2007. The Congressional Record shows that during his introductory statement before The House of Representatives, he thanked the fourteen organizations, including NFSA, who have backed him and the bill’s 28 bipartisan cosponsors.
Campus Fire Safety Legislation Introduced in Congress Yesterday
● The resolution proclaiming September as Campus Fire Safety Month.
● The College Fire Prevention Act which will provide matching grants for the installation of sprinklers in residence halls and Greek housing. It calls for providing $100 million a year for five years.
● The Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act which will allow for tax-deductible contributions to Greek organizations for the purpose of physical upgrades (currently these contributions are not tax-deductible).
Contractors: Need CEU’s for NICET Recertification?
NFSA’s distance learning library called the NFSA Academy provides a quick, easy way to pick up those extra CEU’s required to meet the recertification requirements set by NICET. In fact, most of the programs in the NFSA Academy also qualify for CEU’s in those states requiring continuing education for license renewal. The process is easy and available 24/7. Simply use the “NFSA Academy” link in the upper right hand corner of the webpage.
Here’s what just a few peers are saying about the NFSA Academy: “Travel costs are forcing more people to look for alternative options for education. The NFSA Academy is great!” “Great seminars!” “The online format is great and extremely flexible … fits my schedule.”
Registrations for Red Rock Resort Annual Seminar Rolling In!
Since the registration brochure for NFSA’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition at Las Vegas’ Red Rock Resort was posted at the website just a week ago, the phones have been ringing off the hook and registrations are already rolling in. Contractors from all over North America are registering at record pace with many committing to bringing large numbers of their second and third tier managers responsible for design, sales, purchasing, and project management. Exhibitors who have already registered for booth space are reminded to send their registration forms to NFSA so badges can be made in advance of what is expected to be a record breaking trade show.
50% off NFSA Annual Seminar Registration Fee
In appreciation for years of commitment and loyalty demonstrated by NFSA members who have sent representatives to the annual seminar for the past 5 years, NFSA is offering a 50% discount for this year’s Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas. Also, to encourage participation from companies who may never have experienced an NFSA annual seminar, or at least not in the last 3 years, NFSA is offering the same 50% registration fee discount. Details can be found at the registration brochure link directly under the Red Rock Resort photo at right.
Complimentary SAM Members Buyers’ Guide Listing Available
As a membership benefit, each year NFSA offers its SAM (Supplier And Manufacturer) members a complimentary listing in the Buyers’ Guide issue of its flagship publication SQ magazine. The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 16, 2007. For a modest fee, a listing can be enhanced with a corporate logo. For more information, SAM members should contact NFSA Publications Coordinator Joanne Genadio at genadio@nfsa.org.
SQ magazine reaches the fire sprinkler industry’s top decision makers in every major market across the U.S. Through affiliate fire protection organizations it also receives distribution in over 25 countries on six continents. This year’s Buyers’ Guide issue will receive bonus distribution at the NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition in Las Vegas and the NFPA annual meeting in Boston.
Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act to be Reintroduced
On Friday, January 19, the anniversary of the 2000 fire at Seton Hall University that killed three freshmen, the 2007 Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act is going to be reintroduced in Congress by Representatives Pascrell and Wilson and Senator Lautenberg. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006. So far, fourteen national fire safety organizations have co-signed a letter of support including NFSA.
Housing Complex Fire Claims 9 Lives, 1 Student
A late night fire on Saturday, January 13th in a five-story apartment building in Huntington, West Virginia has claimed at least 9 lives. Of the 9 who perished, one was a student at nearby Marshall University and two others were his siblings just visiting. A local fire official was quoted as saying fire sprinklers were not required when the building was constructed in 1924 but the same building built today would require fire sprinklers. When commenting on fire sprinklers that have been installed in new student housing at also nearby Shepherd University and why older housing on campus is not, a school representative said it’s because the older buildings are of mostly masonry construction.
NFSA 2007 Annual Seminar & Exhibition Registration Material Now Available!
Registration materials for the highly anticipated NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition scheduled for May 3 – 5, 2007 in fabulous Las Vegas are now available. With an outstanding program of workshops designed for various levels of fire sprinkler contractor management including design technicians, purchasing agents and sales persons, contractors should make note of the special discounted Management Team registration fee of $150.00. Along with targeted workshop sessions, contractor management teams are guaranteed to enjoy the tradeshow where they will have the unique opportunity to share ideas directly with top management of the companies who make the products and provide the services they use on a regular basis. It’s a sure bet that this will be the fire sprinkler industry event of the year. Use the “NFSA Annual Seminar Registration Brochure” link at right to get registered today.
NFSA Las Vegas Annual Seminar & Exhibition Expected to Draw Record Numbers!
In anticipation of what is expected to be a tremendous turn out in Las Vegas for NFSA’s 2007 Annual Seminar & Exhibition, the room block at the Red Rock Resort is already receiving brisk activity. Taking advantage of the special Contractor Management Team discount registration fees NFSA is offering, many contractors have already committed to bringing additional staff and doubling up in rooms. Detailed information can be found at the Contractor Management Team link at right. Be sure to check back tomorrow for complete detailed registration inf