Over 80% of fire deaths occur in the home. Fire sprinklers have a superior success rate when properly inspected and maintained, they can save lives and property from fire. They respond quickly and effectively often extinguishing the fire before the fire department arrives.

However, sprinkler systems need to be regularly tested and maintained in order for them to work as designed. According to the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA 25 has established the following fire sprinkler testing schedule:

• • • Quarterly: In order to be as effective as possible, fire sprinkler mechanical devices should be tested quarterly.
    • Semiannually: Every six months, vane and pressure switch type devices must be tested.
    • Annually: Full testing and tagging should be performed annually. During a complete fire sprinkler system test, the technician should perform physical checks on all parts of your fire sprinkler system. These checks include water flow tests, fire pump tests, antifreeze concentration tests (in applicable systems), alarm tests, and trip tests of dry pipe, deluge, and pre-action valves.
    • Every 5 years: Sprinklers exposed to extra-high temperatures and harsh environments, along with gauges on all sprinkler system types, should be tested or replaced every five years.
    • Every 10 years or more: Dry sprinklers should be tested or replaced every 10 years. Fast-response sprinklers should be tested after 20 years in use and every 10 years after that. Standard response sprinklers should be tested after 50 years in use and in 10-year intervals after that.

Upper Captiva Fire and Rescue District has reached out to a local company to coordinate a group discount on annual testing. Sears Fire Protection in Cape Coral has offered a deep discounted fee for an annual testing. The fire department will coordinate or provide the transportation of the technician to the home if requested by the homeowner. The discount fee is provided if at least 15 residents take part in the service.

If interested, please email your name and address to chiefmartinucfd@gmail.com. Once a list of 15 homes has been met, we will reach out to homeowners individually to coordinate further arrangements. Join us in our efforts to keep the island safe!

Sincerely,

Chief Jason M Martin, NREMTP

NFPA CFI-II, NFPA CPE