Sprinklers

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Finally it is starting to register with builders, not only commercial buildings can benefit from the installation of sprinkler systems but homes can too. Recently it was reported in the Toronto Star on February 16^th, 2008 a local developer in Port Perry did just that. He had a sprinkler system installed into a high rise condominium building in Port Perry on the recommendation of the local Fire Department. It cost an additional $5,000.00 per unit which may seem like a lot but it really isn’t when you factor in the safety feature it offers.

            Many people buying these units could be people like me looking for a one floor residence as they get older. It is not just the stairs they can not handle any more, but it is also their hearing which starts to deteriorate. Now I am speaking about myself. I am sure others in my age bracket are better preserved. Think of the wake up call you will get if there is a fire in your unit. You will not only hopefully have the smoke alarm going off, but you will be rained on. At least you will be able to safely leave your unit before harm comes your way. Your possession, although precious, can be replaced but your life can not. The Fire Department may damage your possessions anyway upon arrival with their rather large powerful hoses emitting the water pressure they discharge into your home.

            Recently there have been more deaths reported by Fire in the GTA. Bill Stewart of the Toronto Fire Department reported to the Toronto Star about several recently when interviewed. In one fire 6 people died trapped in a stairwell trying to leave. He is an advocate for improvements of the building codes and bylaws. I am sure he is proud of the direction buildings are going in, should Port Perry’s project be an indication of change. Reported in the same article it was quoted 920 people died in residential fires from 1997 to 2006. Since 1995, 89 of these people lived in high rises in

Toronto

.

            

Vancouver

has required sprinklers in all new residential construction since 1990. Only last month has Premier Dalton McGuinty said

Ontario

may soon implement similar legislation. Hopefully this will come to fruition in short order. It is heart breaking to hear of the losses incurred from these preventable fires. We need to be more diligent.

            Recently I drove past the Fire Station on

Victoria Street

in

Whitby

where the Fire Department had a sign up reminding all residents with basement apartments to call them and have them checked out to see if they comply with all the rules and regulations regarding fire safety. Landlords may consider this annoying and invasive but it is necessary. Remember the saying “Better safe than Sorry”. Do you really want to be sorry if a fire, which could have been prevented through these safety measures, started in your home’s basement apartment incurring not only loss of property but possibly loss of life? Remember the fire could spread into your quarters as well. Do you want to take this risk?

Please check with your local Fire Department regarding what you should be doing to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Many offer advice and inspections for free.