SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Follow-Up on 1914 West 1st Avenue 2nd Alarm

Incident #:  2011033592
Date of Incident:  8/22/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
VICTIM INFORMATION: The victim from yesterday's fatality fire has been identified by the Spokane County Coroner as; Herriman, Perry--a 45 year old male. Forensic tests are still outstanding and the official cause of death has not been determined. ORIGIN: The origin of the fire has been determined by investigators to be a room on the second floor which was termed "Unit 4" of the building. The fire started in sofa-style chair and rapidly spread throughout the second and third floor causing violent fire behavior and untenable conditions. The cause is still under investigation. BUILDING: Spokane County Assessor records indicate that the building constructed in 1900 and remodeled later in 1961. The home was initially designed as a two-story single family residence; however the current configuration is a four-story living space (two rooms for rent in the basement, two rooms for rent on the first level, four rooms for rent on the second level and one room for rent on the third level). There were reportedly up to 15 civilians in the building at the time of the fire. Two civilians were rescued by SFD fire companies using ground ladders while others were able to self-escape through doorways. Two persons were ultimately transported by ambulance to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and burns resulting from their escape. I appreciate the reminders from media and the time constraints that you are under. This is all of the information available. I do not intend to release any additional information regarding this incident for 24-48 hours.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Red Flag Issued Today

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  8/22/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Spokane, Lincoln, Stevens, Kittitas, Klickitat, Benton, Franklin, Yakima and Walla Walla Counties starting late morning through late evening today with sustained winds at 15-25 and gusts to 40 mph expected and RH down to 15-20 percent. A "Red Flag Warning" is a forecast warning issued by the NWS to inform area firefighting and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildland fire ignition and propagation. After drought conditions when humidity is very low, and especially when high or erratic winds which may include lightning are factors, the "Red Flag Warning" becomes a critical statement for firefighting agencies: agencies often alter staffing and equipment resources dramatically to accommodate the forecast risk. To the public, a "Red Flag Warning" means high fire danger with increased probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fire in the area within 24 hours. Fire season in Spokane County becomes especially severe when a lack of rain results in dry vegetation. However, there are easy steps that community members can take to protect their homes, their property, and themselves. Spokane Fire Department urges everyone to follow these guidelines: -Be careful with fire. It is estimated that people cause 90% of wildfires. -Create a defensible space around all structures by clearing flammable vegetation to a minimum of 100' or to the property line. -Remove tree limbs within 10' of chimneys and stovepipes. -Remove pine needles and leaves from roofs, eaves, and rain gutters. -Remember that lawnmowers are for use on lawns. Do not use them on dry grass or weeds; doing so can start a fire. -Always mow before 10 a.m. Dry grass has the highest amount of moisture during the morning hours. -Dispose of cigarettes properly. Do not discard cigarettes on roadsides or in dry grass. -Be alert: Immediately report small fires by calling 9-1-1. -Avoid activities in or adjacent to dry grass or brush covered areas, such as weed mowing or disking, metal cutting, grinding or welding, using chain saws or any other activity that could produce a spark or flame. -Park vehicles with hot catalytic converters only on paved or dirt areas; not on grass. Most important: Have a plan for gathering family members, pets, and valuables in case an approaching wildfire requires evacuation. Visit www.ReadySetGoSpokane.org for quick and easy information on how to streamline your plan.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Washington Flats Fire

Incident #:  2011033602
Date of Incident:  8/22/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
Spokane Fire Department wildland firefighting equipment, firefighters and command personnel have been sent to the "Washington Flats Fire." The incident is a State Mobilization which was authorized yesterday evening at 8:45 pm. The Fire's geographic location is in Douglas County, approximately 4 miles North of Grand Coulee. Spokane's Incident Management Team is managing the fire and the Incident Commander is Randy Johnson from Spokane Co Fire District #4. Last intelligence received was that the fire's size was 400+ acres. 15 residences were reportedly being threatened and the area was under a level 1 evacuation notification. At the time of the mobilization, there were 120 personnel working with 25 wildland engines, 5 tenders and 4 aircraft on the fire. Two Type 1 (Hotshot) hand crews have also been ordered. The expected fire weather is posing a significant threat for the personnel with wind gusts expected to be 10 to 20 mph SSW, 90 degree temperatures with a RH below 20%. Media, the command post has been established at the Grand Coulee Middle School where the Spokane IMT's PIO is set up. Any further information on this incident must be obtained through the IMT.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Brownes Additon Fire

Incident #:  2011033592
Date of Incident:  8/21/2011
Issuing Officer:  Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief

Narrative:
This evening August 21st 2011, at 19:58 hours the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 5 Engines, 3 Ladders, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2 Chief Officers to a reported fire at 1914 W. 1st Ave. Additional apparatus were sent in this first initial dispatch due to multiple 911 calls and reports of people trapped inside the structure. Engine 4 from the Browne's addition fire station, arrived a little over two minute from dispatch. Engine 4 under the direction of Lt. Dan Renner reported heavy fire showing from the second floor of a 3 story, wood frame residential with occupants stranded on the front roof. E4 assigned incoming apparatus to provide for an interior fire attack and to search for additional persons that were reported to be inside. Neighbors along with Firefighters from Engine 4 placed ladders to the front of the house to rescue stranded residents that were trapped by the developing fire. As additional fire crews arrived, they were sent into the structure to search for additional residents. The older home had been converted into roughly 9 residential units and the fire had substantial control of the second floor and the narrow stairways leading to the 3rd floor unit. Firefighters fought their way up the stairs extinguishing fire and searching for additional fire victims as they advanced. Interior crews were reporting intense heat as they made their way through the 2nd floor and narrow stairway that led to the top floor. Ladder 1's crew attempted to release some of the crippling heat on the upper floors through cutting holes in the roof. A medical group was established to provide medical care. Two residents were treated for smoke inhalation and transported to the hospital. Search crews made it to the 3rd floor, but progress was stopped due to the massive amount of heat, flames, and poor access through a very narrow stairway. Command backed the interior crews down and used a "deck gun" on the top of Engine 4 to help darken the fire from a different attack position. The deck gun was deployed for approximately and minute and then fire crews were transitioned back into the interior of the structure to continue searching and extinguish the fire. As crews gained control of the third floor, they found a male fire victim that had succumbed to the fire. The fire cause is still under investigation at this time. Fire investigators will continue with their investigation on Monday. Red Cross is assisting approximately 10 adults that have been displaced by the fire. A total of 35 firefighters and 6 chief officers responded to this incident.

Cause:
Cause is still under investigation.

Damage:
Smoke throughout. Heavy fire damage 2nd and 3rd floor.

# Firefighters Responding: 35

Dollar Loss: $85000

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Fire at Perkins Restaurant

Incident #:  2011033442
Date of Incident:  8/20/2011
Issuing Officer:  Battalion Chief Dan Brown

Narrative:
On the evening of August 20th at 6:48 the City of Spokane Fire Department responded 26 firefighters on 8 fire apparatus and 2 command personnel to East 12 Olive and Division St to a reported fire in Perkins Restaurant. First arriving fire companies from Station 1 located at W44 Riverside arrived within 3 minutes to report light smoke coming from a roof vent. Command was established, crews were assigned to the roof and interior to search and to locate the fire, attack leads were placed at the doors in a ready position. The fire was discovered in an adjoining outside electrical room and was quickly extinguished. Damage was confined to the electrical room and the interior wall of the adjoining room and light smoke through out the building All customers were out of the restaurant when Fire Department arrived. No injuries to report. County Health was notified and reported to the scene. Investigators are looking into the cause.

Cause:
Combustibles to close to water heater

Damage:
Damage to the electrical room and contents, and to an interior wall during overhaul.

# Firefighters Responding: 26

Dollar Loss: $4000.00

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Brush Fire North Battalion Joint Jurisdiction

Incident #:  2011033181
Date of Incident:  8/19/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Friday, August 19, 2011 at 2:19 AM, Fire District 9 Engine 93 was dispatched to the area of Nine Mile Road and Wenger for a wildland fire. Callers from homes located above the fire in the 8400 block of Forest Court called 911 and reported hearing an explosion and fire that could be viewed from their homes located 600 feet above Nine Mile Road. Engine 93 arrived and reported a wildland fire in brush and timber burning up toward the homes. The incident was upgraded due to the fire's progression toward the residences and difficult terrain. Eleven companies of firefighters; 2 Engines from the SFD, 5 Engines from District 9 and 4 Engines Department of Natural Resources (DNR) under the direction of unified Incident Commanders from all three-agencies worked throughout the night to gain control of the urban interface wildland fire. Firefighters arrived to find a column of smoke and approximately 3 acres of medium to heavy brush burning. The incident started in a draw in the wildland area near nine mile and access was difficult to terrain and darkness. The fire was moving quickly uphill in the initial stages of the incident and firefighters quickly realized that access to fire was only possible by hiking into the origin and working along the steep terrain. Air resources were unavailable due to the night operation. As companies were called into action, additional personnel were strategically placed above the fire to protect homes and halt the fire's advance. With relatively slow wind speeds, mild relative humidity and cool temperatures, firefighters were able to knock down the flames in four hours. Due to the strong efforts of 27 firefighters, this fire was completely extinguished. DNR crews remained throughout the day patrolling the fire and guaranteeing that it remained 100% mopped up. Thanks to the quick work of the firefighters from all three agencies, only 3 acres were consumed by the fire. The strong unified command, prior training and standardization of tactics, communications, safety principles and overall great firefighters are the reasons for the successful outcome of this incident.

Cause:
The cause of the fire was a result of an abandoned stolen vehicle at the base of the fire. The investigators from SFD's SIU and Detectives from the SPD are working together on the case due to stolen property found in the vehicle and scattered throughout the scene.

Damage:
3-acres of wildland and a stolen vehicle received damage.

# Firefighters Responding: 27

Other Fire Districts Responding: Fire District 1, Fire District 9

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Gel

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  8/15/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
The SFD and NFPA is urging the public to employ EXTREME caution when using gel fuel, a product typically used with fire pots, personal fireplaces, and some patio torches. The traditional stop, drop and roll program may not extinguish clothing that catches fire involving splattered or spilled gel fuel. A dry chemical extinguisher is recommended to extinguish the fire. Recent news reports from across the country have highlighted several incidents where people have been injured while using gel fuel. A number of these injuries have occurred during the refueling process. The flame may still be burning even when it is not visible, which is not uncommon with some gel fuel, and pouring fuel on any open flame is extremely unsafe. According to NFPA, it is also important to allow a gel fuel device to cool completely (30-45 minutes) before refueling because if the fuel comes into contact with the hot device it may splatter on clothing or skin, resulting in a burn injury. As with any product, manufacturer's instructions should be followed, but NFPA issued a special alert because of the high number of cases where people have been injured while using gel fuel. The NFPA and SFD offers the following safety tips when using devices that gel fuel: -Keep your face away from the device when refueling. -If gel fuel is spilled on clothing, remove the clothing and launder it immediately. -Never leave a lit fire pot, personal fireplace or patio torch unattended. -Keep these devices at least one foot from anything that can burn. -Place the fire pot or personal fireplace on a sturdy surface. -Make sure patio torches are secure and not in the path of people or pets. -Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away. -These devices will be hot during and after burning; do not touch or move. -Be careful reaching over the device because clothing or hair could catch fire. -Use only gel fuel to refuel. Never substitute another kind of fuel. -Citronella gel fuel is intended for outdoor use only. -Allow the device to cool for 30-45 minutes before refueling. -Pouring gel fuel in a device that is not completely cool may result in a fire or injury. -Store the gel fuel in its tightly sealed original container; away from heat sources and out of reach of children and pets.

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

North Battalion Residential Fire

Incident #:  2011031900
Date of Incident:  8/10/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
On Wednesday August 10, 2011 at 6:23 PM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue, under the direction of Battalion Chief Fielder, responded to a Residential Structure Fire at 2233 West Broad in Northwest Spokane. Firefighters arrived quickly to discover smoke showing from the front of the single story single-family residence. After confirming the accountability of the occupants, firefighters entered the structure using pre-connected handlines and quickly located and extinguished the fire. Additional arriving companies simultaneously provided ventilation and extinguishment of extension from the fire's originating area. The fire was completely extinguished and loss controlled in 25 minutes. Companies are still on-scene assisting family members at the time of this release. There were no civilian or firefighter injured resulting from this incident.

Cause:
The fire's cause is under investigation by the SFD's SIU.

Damage:
Structural damage was limited to the area of origin; however damage to contents from smoke is moderate. The occupants are being assisted by extended family due to the fact that the home cannot be inhabited until utilities are restored and critical repairs are completed.

# Firefighters Responding: 19

Dollar Loss: $15000

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

     

Third Alarm+ Apartment Fire

  Incident #:  2011031800
Date of Incident:  8/10/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer
    
Narrative:
On Wednesday August 10, 2011 at 07:41AM, Six companies of Spokane Firefighters (3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 1 Senior Ladder) under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Haworth and Sabo responded to a Structure Fire at 10 East Pine Ridge Court (Peter Square Apartments). Spokane Firefighters arrived quickly to find heavy smoke and fire showing from the first to third floors of a three-story apartment building with approximately 24 occupied units. Finding fire in multiple units throughout all three floors and the attic space, firefighters commenced swift fire attack techniques and simultaneous room-by-room searches while ladder companies were sent to the roof to vertically ventilate the fire. The first arriving Chief requested a second alarm at 07:49AM which added three engines and a Senior Ladder to the incident. A/C Schaeffer issued a third alarm at 08:03AM adding three additional Engines, two AMR Ambulances with an AMR Supervisor, Fire District 4's Rehab Vehicle and off-duty SFD Command Staff to fill incident management roles. He subsequently added an additional two Engines and the Department's Physician Director to the incident to assist with Firefighter Rehab and medical surveillance efforts. At one point early in the incident (0809AM), the IC ordered an "abandon the building" alert via the radio to all companies due to rapidly changing fire dynamics and collapse concerns. After a personnel were accounted for and tactics were modified, the strategy transitioned to an offensive attack and personnel re-engaged. The well coordinated effort confined the flames to one building and completely extinguished the blaze after multiple hours of intense activity. Thankfully, there were no injuries to any residents, citizens near the fire or firefighters.

Cause:
The Fire is under investigation by the Fire Department's SIU.
 
Damage:
Though loss from the fire was limited predominately to the north-most building, a total of nine apartment units and some adjacent area received intense damage. An estimated total of 45 persons living in the affected residential apartment units were referred to the American Red Cross for help and potential interim placement assistance.
 
Other Fire Districts Responding: Fire District 1, Fire District 10, Fire District 4, Fire District 8, Fire District 9

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Spokane Fire Department 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  8/10/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
Firefighters from around the region will participate in the Spokane 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb, a commemorative climb that will remember and honor the 343 members of the Fire Department of New York who died on September 11, 2001. Participants will climb the Bank of America Financial Center multiple times for a total of 110 stories, which represents the number of floors in the Twin Towers. All firefighters will have the option to start in turn-out gear, just as their fire service brothers did that morning, or wear their work uniforms or gym clothes and simply walk in tribute to the fallen firefighters. Spokane's 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb is just one of nearly 50 memorial stairclimbs that will be held across the country this year to commemorate the 10 year anniversary of the September 11th attacks that claimed the lives of 343 firefighters. A total of 343 firefighters can participate in each event, and all participants will receive a photo and badge of one of the fallen heroes to climb with. Registration fees will be directed to the NFFF to assist the surviving families and coworkers of those firefighters killed or who will die as a result of injuries or medical conditions suffered on September 11, 2001. "The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs are a tremendous way to honor those heroes by completing the symbolic climb that they could not finish," said Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki, executive director of the NFFF. "These climbs are also a way to let the families know the legacies of their loved ones are remembered by so many in the fire service." The Spokane 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb will be hosted by local firefighters and the event is specifically for firefighters. Event sponsors include the Spokane Firefighters Credit Union, IAFF Local 29, Unico Properties and the Spokane Fire Department Foundation. For more information regarding the Spokane 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb: www.firehero.org or Jason Keen at 208-640-4240 spokane911memorialstairclimb@yahoo.com

Cause:
N/A

Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

 

Tony Yuen Wins Tree Top's America's Best Firehouse BBQ Challenge!

Incident #: 
Date of Incident:  8/9/2011
Issuing Officer:  AC Schaeffer
Narrative:
Fire Equipment Operator Tony Yuen's recipe for "Tony's Puleihu BBQ Sauce" has been selected as Tree Top's America's Best Firehouse BBQ from their 2011 Firehouse Cook Off. Yuen's recipe, video and competitors can be viewed at Tree Top's website at www.americasbestfirehousebbq.com Tony's Station (SFD Station 13) will be receiving a $10,000 Donation for the charity of their choice. Congratulations Tony and Station 13 !!!
Cause:
N/A
Damage:
N/A

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Overturned Vehicle Requires Extrication

Incident #:  2011031629
Date of Incident:  8/9/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief

Narrative:
On August 9th, 2011 at 5:54 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to an extrication call involving an overturned automobile at the intersection of Alki Way and Broadway. Fire crews found a sedan on it's top off of the roadway and next to a building. Two occupants remained inside the vehicle. One was deceased and the other was conscious but seriously injured. Special extrication equipment was deployed from Rescue 1 which is based out of the downtown neighborhood station at Riverside and Browne. Assisting were other crews from stations 2, 7 and 8 along with two battalion chiefs. Because the car was on its top and not on its wheels, great care was taken to stabilize the vehicle to make sure it was still and would not move. Shoring blocks were used to help with this concern. Soon after, the surviving patient was successfully extricated from the vehicle and transported to Sacred Heart Medical Center. Spokane Police were also on scene and are currently investigating. Total extrication time was 15 minutes.

Cause:
Under investigation by the Spokane Police Department.

Damage:
Vehicle was severly damaged.

# Firefighters Repsonding: 18

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Did you know that the SFD is committed to sustainability?

There are several initiatives in the Department that we will highlight this month on blog.  The first "green" program we are highlighting is the GlyClean Program which was developed to recycle all of the fleet’s anti-freeze.  By using an elaborate system of filters and compounds, the SFD’s shop is able to re-use antifreeze in all of its large apparatus and smaller vehicles.  Analysis of the Glyclean-treated recycled anti-freeze actually shows improved corrosion protection of engine components and superior boiling and freezing protection that new anti-freeze.  Aside from the environmental benefit of decreasing the release of ethyleneglycol into the environment, the SFD has also been realizing a financial net average savings of 89.6% in the quantity of anti-freeze purchased from previous years.  Division Chief Art Nichols is responsible for the Department's Fleet and this specific "green" program.

SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Car crashes into Teacher's Credit Union

Incident #:  2011031551
Date of Incident:  8/8/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
Narrative:
On August 8th, 2011 at 12:45 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to 820 E. 29th the Teacher's Credit Union on the report of a vehicle that struck the building and a possible fire inside. 4 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs responded. Upon arrival it was found that there were two elderly occupants still inside the vehicle that were injured. Fire crews began an immediate search of the interior of the building making sure all occupants had evacuated and to locate any signs of fire. They encountered smoke inside and discovered an arcing electrical meter from the impact of the vehicle. The patients inside the car were treated by an SFD paramedic and his crew along with another crew trained in Basic Life Support. They rapidly removed the patients and began treating their minor injuries. The Avista Company arrived and shut off the power so fire crews could start digging into the walls to search for hidden fire. Fortunately, the fire was limited to the arcing meter and did not extend into the wall or attic space above. Spokane Police were also on scene and are currently investigating. At this time, the cause of the impact appears to be an improperly operated motor vehicle. While fire crews were still on the scene, the credit union was very busy with making arrangements for repairs to the building and to restore their electrical power.
Cause:
The driver lost control of his vehicle in the credit union's parking lot.
Damage:
Damage to exterior and interior walls including framework and electrical conduit and wiring.
# Firefighters Responding: 24
Dollar Loss: $10,000

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

While smoke alarms can alert residents to a home fire, they cannot extinguish a fire. Fire sprinkler systems can!

In 2009, only 20% of reported fires occurred in one- and two-family homes but these fires caused 70% (2,107) of all civilian fire deaths.  Homes also account for the largest share of civilian fire injuries and direct property damage.

Despite the fact that these figures represent improvement over the last 30 years, they continue to be appalling.  Such losses are unacceptable.  Incorporate the following information and facts into your community meetings and encourage residents to seriously consider installing residential fire sprinklers when building a new home, or when remodeling an existing home.  The cost of installation is worth the life-saving potential of residential sprinklers.

Fire Safety Impact

The Building and Fire Research Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology has studied the impact of both smoke alarms and fire sprinklers in residential occupancies and estimates that:

When fire sprinklers alone are installed, the chances of dying in a fire are reduced by 69%, when compared to a home without sprinklers.

1. When smoke alarms alone are installed, a reduction in the death rate of 63% can be expected, when compared to a home without smoke alarms.
2. When both smoke alarms and fire sprinklers are present, the risk of dying in a fire is reduced by 82%, when compared to a home without either.

The Benefits of Residential Fire Sprinklers

• Safer Fire Service:  The risk for firefighters decreases when residential fire sprinklers are in use because sprinklers reduce the intensity of the fire by dousing the flame earlier.
• Fast Response:  Modern residential fire sprinklers are designed to respond to fire faster than commercial or industrial sprinkler systems because they are more sensitive to heat.
• Aesthetically Pleasing:  Residential fire sprinklers are smaller and less conspicuous than commercial or industrial types.  Color variations are available and some can be installed flush with the ceiling.
• Reliable:  Fire sprinkler systems exceed a 95% “fail-safe” status in laboratory testing.  Sprinklers individually activate only if there is a fire in which the heat escalates past the sprinkler’s trigger point.
• Investment Protection:  Fire sprinklers can prevent devastating home damage by extinguishing flames quickly.  Sprinklers can limit the damage caused by smoke and fire and are less damaging than water damage caused by firefighting hose lines.
• Simple Installation:  Installing a fire sprinkler system in a home that is under construction or being remodeled requires minimal extra piping and labor and greatly increases the safety of the residents.
• Low Water Requirement:  Residential fire sprinklers can be connected to the domestic water supply and require less water than commercial and industrial systems.
• Low Cost:  Residential fire sprinklers cost about $1.61 per square foot.  This cost is about the same as upgraded cabinets or carpet.
• Lower Insurance:  Installing a fire sprinkler system has the potential to lower insurance rates 5 to 15% by meeting code requirements.

It is the position of the Spokane Fire Department that all citizens should be protected against death, injury, and property loss resulting from fire in their residence. All homes should be equipped with both smoke alarms and automatic fire sprinklers, and all families should have and practice an emergency escape plan. The SFD fully supports all efforts to reduce the tragic toll of fire losses in this nation by implementing these features. Only fire sprinklers can detect fire AND automatically control it—affording families the time to make a safe escape and protect valuables and property.