REGIONAL REPORT
North Central Edition
Daniel J. Gengler March 2009
Regional Manager
PO Box 280
Williams Bay, WI 53191
Phone: (262) 245-5255
Fax: (262) 245-5258
Cell: (914) 414-3336
The Carpenters tune,
“We’ve only just begun”
appropriately describes
the code adoption wars
fire sprinklers face as
given by homebuilder
attempts to pass laws in
states preventing state
and local adoption of the
IRC provision for
mandatory residential fire
sprinklers in 1- & 2-family
homes. All available
sources are needed to
help overcome this anti-
sprinkler crusade. Step
up now!
NFPA launches new initiative to help Bring Safety Home with fire sprinklers
Campaign to focus on encouraging sprinkler adoptions for new one- and two-family homes on a
statewide and local level
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has launched the Fire Sprinkler Initiative: Bringing Safety
Home. The Fire Sprinkler Initiative will provide materials and resources to people and organizations working to
encourage the adoption of requirements for automatic fire sprinklers in new one- and two-family homes.
Currently, 80 percent of fire deaths occur in the home, killing nearly 3,000 people each year. The Fire Sprinkler
Initiative is dedicated to saving lives through the use of this proven technology. Homes with automatic fire
sprinklers and working smoke alarms reduce the risk of an occupant dying in a fire by 82 percent.
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“The Fire Sprinkler Initiative will make available important tools that can be used by people working on the
front lines to get sprinkler requirements passed in their communities,” says NFPA President James M. Shannon.
“For years, NFPA has been a strong supporter of home fire sprinklers through our public education and code
development efforts. In this campaign, we’ve taken the next step to support public safety advocacy and help
save lives.”
The Fire Sprinkler Initiative will include a variety of proven and effective ways that home fire sprinkler
advocates can communicate the impact and importance of sprinkler requirements. The Initiative’s Web site –
www.firesprinklerinitiative.org – will be the source of materials advocates can use when talking to community
leaders, elected officials, and others to get home sprinkler requirements in place, either through ordinances or
adoption of model safety codes.
A discussion forum will be hosted on the Web site, where advocates from the across the country will be able to
share helpful information about the home fire sprinkler movement and encourage adoptions in their
communities. The Initiative will also incorporate social networking sites to help the fire service and other
advocates stay connected as never before. In addition, NFPA’s regional staff will provide support to help put in
place local and statewide sprinkler requirements.
“The launch of this campaign could not come at a more critical time,” says Maryland State Fire Marshal
William E. Barnard. “We need to bring a higher level of fire safety into new homes – not only for ourselves, but
for future generations. This campaign will help spur public safety advocates to make home fire sprinkler
adoptions a reality.”
“Coordination and support from The Fire Sprinkler Initiative will help the fire service community and sprinkler
advocates across the country increase safety for both our residents and fire service personnel,” says Park Forest,
Ill. Fire Chief Robert Wilcox. “Sprinkler requirements can be implemented and they will save lives.”
NFSA Annual Seminar & Exhibition 2009 – A Must!
http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/OrlandoChampionsGate.aspx
While winter’s wrath has made it the customary cold and blustery in Northern climes, things are really heating
up at NFSA headquarters, and that can only mean one thing. That’s right! Plans for the upcoming NFSA Annual
Seminar & Exhibition scheduled for April 30 – May 2, 2009 at the Omni ChampionsGate Resort in Orlando,
Florida have been finalized and registration materials are now available. Find all the details at the “Conference
Registration” link at the NFSA website at www.nfsa.org.
With programming focused on industry advancement and business survival strategies, fire sprinkler contractors
will find immediate value. There are “early-bird” registration discounts, and even a special reduced registration
fee for contractors’ management teams. In addition to an early registration discount for those members
registering before March 1, both the newcomer and veteran NFSA conference attendee alike can take advantage
of a 50% registration fee discount offer. How’s that for an incentive?
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Suppliers and manufacturers interested in making booth space reservations for the exhibition will find that
information under the “Order Booth Space” link at the website. There are a limited number of spaces still
available; however, this show will sell out. To not be disappointed, reservations should be made very soon.
Also, the NFSA room block at the Omni ChampionsGate is open. Since NFSA has reserved nearly every
available room at the Omni, practically everyone in the hotel during the conference and exhibition dates will be
from the fire sprinkler industry. Reservations can be made by following the “Omni Reservations” link at the
NFSA website or by calling the Omni directly at 800.843.6664.
And finally, airfares to Orlando from all over the country are especially low right now. To get an idea of
examples, follow the “Sample Airfares Update” link from the website. NFSA will be checking airfares from
major markets to Orlando on a weekly basis from now until a month or so before the annual seminar and
posting them at the website. Those who plan in advance will be rewarded with the best fares, so plan today to
meet in Orlando in April with NFSA – the fire sprinkler industry experts.
Fire 2009 Flammability & Combustibility in Building Materials
The first annual executive conference on developments in residential and commercial building materials and
solutions for fire prevention and protection will be held April 6-7, 2009 at the Chicago Marriott Downtown
Magnificent Miles. The program is produced and hosted by Principia Partners, globally recognized for
unrivaled industry knowledge. Sponsors include, UL, DOW, FBC Building Solutions, International Code
Council and the NFSA to name a few.
This two-day event will tackle commercial and technical issues presented by industry leaders through formal
presentations. Expert panels discuss the latest business topics important to all audience delegates. Interactive
technology lets you express your opinion anonymously from your seat, which is a highly informative
experience.
We offer an intimate setting for industry suppliers to exhibit their products and services. The exhibition area is
an ideal place for attendees to meet your team for networking and business opportunities.
Illinois 13 D Summit Resounding Success
More than 170 fire and building officials and community leaders from Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and other
states attended Fire Team USA's fire protection informational and training conference at the Medinah Shriners
facility in Addison, Illinois.
Funded through a FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant, the conference is an initiative to bring fire chiefs
and marshals, elected officials, building officials and other stakeholders together to learn and share fire
prevention methods and alternatives that affect quality of life and improve public policy on fire protection.
Topics included fire protection priorities and codes, the politics of life safety, mobilizing the community
stakeholders, and the various resources available to educate and improve public policy. Speakers also discussed
the details behind NFPA 13D, the standard for the installation of fire sprinklers in one- and two-family homes.
Congressman Peter Roskam, Illinois's 6th District, whose district includes Addison, addressed the audience
talking about why he believes it's important to support the fire service. He opened his comments talking about
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his personal experience with a house fire as a child. Congressman Roskam said he has cosponsored and
supports the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, a bill that reduces the tax depreciation time for retrofitting fire
sprinkler systems in buildings from 39 years to five years. He joined the Congressional Fire Services Caucus,
the largest caucus in Congress with over 320 members. As a new member of the House Ways and Means
Committee, Congressman Roskam said he would continue to support the fire service at the committee level.
At the end of the conference’s first day, those who attended withstood the 20-degree weather to watch a live
burn demonstration in the facility parking lot. Two rooms were built and furnished. A fire sprinkler was
installed in one room, the other room was not protected. Fires were started in both rooms to show how quickly
flashover occurs without fire sprinklers. Flashover is when all the contents in the room start on fire. Flashover
occurred in about three minutes. Addison firefighters used hoses to extinguish the fire. In the room protected
with a fire sprinkler, the smoke alarm sounded at 10 seconds. The sprinkler activated in about 30 seconds and
extinguished the fire. Fire protection educators believe the side-by-side burn demonstration is an effective way
to teach people about how quickly fire spreads and how effective fire sprinklers work to save lives and property.
The second day finished the Fire team USA program but included what has become an outstanding forum for
the education of residential fire sprinklers. In attendance were 310 fire service, building officials, municipal
servants and elect4ed officials. All received packets to help them in their quest to make their respective
communities safer.
The session included keynote speakers NFPA President Jim Shannon and NFSA President John A. Viniello.
Shannon addressed the progressive efforts of the Illinois fire service and the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler
Advisory Board to get 60 municipalities to adopt 13 D ordinances. He spoke of the NFPA’s new campaign,
Bringing Safety Home. He encouraged participation with the NFPA to make all of America safer. John
Viniello addressed the audience with similar acknowledgements and went on to inform them that the NFSA has
tools for them to use for educating the public on the safety value of residential fire sprinkler protection in the
home.
(Left) NFPA President Jim
Shannon addresses those in
attendance for the Illinois
Residential Fire Sprinkler
Summit held in Addison,
IL with a Fire Team USA
accompanying the 2-day
program.
NFSA Manager of Codes Obtains CBCO Designation
NFSA has announced that its Manager of Codes, Jeff Hugo, recently passed the International Code Council
building official exam, earning him the Certified Building Official or CBO designation. Having the CBO
credential along with his other inspector and plan review certifications has qualified Jeff to become one of only
a few Certified Building Code Officials (CBCO) across the country. Jeff works out of NFSA’s Essexville,
Michigan office and can be reached by email at Hugo@nfsa.org.
Web Banners Add New Look to NFSA Website
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NFSA is pleased to announce the addition of web banners to the NFSA home page at our website. The web
banners are offered at no cost to advertisers who commit to six insertions per year of a four color, full page ad
in SQ magazine. The banners are also available to members for a nominal fee of $180/month. Web banners are
a great way to drive potential customers to your site. When visitors to the NFSA website click on a web banner,
they are taken to the advertiser’s desired web page through a link that the advertiser supplies. The more clicks
the web banner generates, the higher the advertiser rises in search engine results. We believe this to be an
outstanding opportunity for all of our members. Please contact our Advertising and Publications Coordinator,
Joanne Genadio at 845.878.4200 ext. 118 or genadio@nfsa.org for further information.
NFSA Web Banner Available to Members
NFSA is pleased to announce the availability of an NFSA web banner for our members to post at their websites.
The banner proclaims “Proud Member of NFSA-The Voice of the Fire Sprinkler Industry” and is sent with a
link to the NFSA website. Members displaying the banner can make it known to all visitors to their website that
their organization is a member in good standing of NFSA. Every time a visitor clicks on the NFSA web banner
they will be directed to the NFSA homepage. We are hoping to not only increase membership through this
initiative, but to keep the Association strong, vital and in the public eye. Every click on the web banner will
raise NFSA’s appearance in search engine results. Please contact Advertising and Promotions Coordinator,
Joanne Genadio at genadio@nfsa.org or 845.878.4200 ext. 118 to receive your NFSA web banner. Show your
NFSA pride to all!
NFSA Produces Design Technician Recruitment Video
NFSA is pleased to announce that as part of an overall design technician recruitment effort, it has completed
production of a Sprinkler Design Technician Recruitment video. The video was produced to bring qualified
individuals into the fire sprinkler industry and highlights those aspects of sprinkler design technician work that
are unique, challenging and rewarding. While the video is scheduled to be debuted at the NFSA Annual
Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando later this year, a sneak peek is available right now. Follow the “Careers” link
at the NFSA website at www.nfsa.org.
Nashville Green Hills Fire Death Sparks Lawsuit Over Lack of Sprinklers
For a full decade, the proprietors of the Green Hills Apartment for Retired Teachers tried to find a way to fund
the legally mandated installation of an automatic sprinkler system throughout their 14-floor building on Abbott
Martin Road. And when a fire broke out in the living room of 81-year-old Sarah Regen in the early morning
hours of Feb. 11, 2008, the job still had not been done.
Gravely injured by smoke inhalation, former Metro Schools administrative assistant Regen suffered progressive
pulmonary disease and other health problems in the months following the blaze. She died on Dec. 3.
Now her children are seeking $5 million in damages from the nonprofit organization that runs the apartment
complex. The entity, Metropolitan Nashville Teachers’ Apartment Inc., is still trying to raise $2.5 million to
install the sprinklers that might have saved Regen’s life.
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In a lawsuit filed Monday in Davidson County Circuit Court, Regen’s two sons and daughter claim MNTA
“was aware of, but consciously disregarded, a substantial and unjustifiable risk” of which it was warned over
and over from 1998 onward.
Metro fire inspectors wrote to the apartment's manager in 2000 after getting no response to the notice they sent
in 1998 about a new law requiring that “all existing high-rise buildings must be protected throughout by an
approved, supervised, automatic sprinkler system.” The manager replied that the nonprofit’s board of directors
had solicited bids for a system and said “it is our intent to install the system as soon as these bids are received
and the board approves one of them.”
When there were still no sprinklers by February 2003, the fire marshal’s office wrote once more, warning that
the building owner might face sanctions if it did not bring the facility into compliance soon.
In September of that year, a fire at a Nashville nursing home that had no sprinklers killed 16 residents, leading
to widespread public discussion of the need to retrofit such structures with sprinklers. However, the Green Hills
apartments remained without a fire-protection system.
In March 2006, the fire marshal’s office notified MNTA that it was required to install a system by the following
January. When nothing had happened by January 2008, a year after the deadline, the marshal finally issued a
citation. Before the court date, however, the fire broke out in Regen's apartment.
Property Manager Robert P. Burton said yesterday that after learning of the sprinkler requirement, MNTA's
board “tried to research every way possible to do it without increasing rent on our senior citizens.” Applicants
seeking to live in the property must be 62 or older, “so everybody is on fixed income,” Burton explained.
“When I came on board five years ago, it was clear that the board was conscious of who the clientele is and was
trying not to pass this cost along to those people,” Burton said. The board looked for grants, private donations
and other ways to raise the money, without success.
Last summer, under pressure from Metro's Environmental Court, MNTA imposed what Burton calls “a
dramatic rent increase” to help fund the $2.5 million sprinkler project. But it will still have to borrow most of
the money. Financing the improvements has involved obtaining a waiver from the federal Department of
Housing and Urban Development regarding the existing mortgage on the property, a process that has taken
some months but which Burton believes will be completed soon. “Until the sprinklers are installed, we've hired
a security firm to maintain constant fire watch on the premises,” Burton stated. The fire department has issued
no final report on the cause of the fire, according to the property manager. “Fires don't spread in this building,”
Burton said. “It's 100 percent concrete. But the fact that Mrs. Regen got hurt and then passed away has really
devastated us. She was well-loved by a lot of us here.”
The lawsuit seeks $2.5 million each in compensatory and punitive damages. John L. Norris, of Norris & Norris
PLC in Nashville, represents the Regen family.
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Campus Firewatch publisher appointed to Department of Education committee that will
develop campus fire safety regulations
The U.S. Department of Education announced the members of the committee that will be charged with
developing regulations for the provisions of the Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know that were passed as part of
the Higher Education Opportunity Act in 2008. Ed Comeau, publisher of Campus Firewatch, has been
appointed as a single issue primary negotiator for fire safety.
The Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act was introduced by Congressman Bill Pascrell (NJ) and Senator
Frank Lautenberg (NJ) in order to provide students and parents with information on the level of fire safety at
campuses across the nation, including:
The number of fires and the cause of each fire
The number of injuries related to a fire that result in treatment at a medical facility
The number of deaths related to a fire
The value of property damage caused by a fire
A description of each on-campus student housing facility fire safety system, including the fire sprinkler
system
The number of regular mandatory supervised fire drills
Policies or rules on portable electrical appliances, smoking, and open flames (such as candles),
procedures for evacuation, and policies regarding fire safety education and training programs provided
to students, faculty, and staff
Plans for future improvements in fire safety, if determined necessary by such institution
In order to gather input from campuses and communities, Campus Firewatch has established a webpage that
contains the language of the Right-to-Know provisions and a wiki where visitors can provide recommendations
for the language. This page can be reached at: http
The schedule of meetings and additional information will also be posted on this page and available in Campus
Firewatch.
NFSA Produces Design Technician Recruitment Video
NFSA is pleased to announce that as part of an overall design technician recruitment effort, it has completed
production of a Sprinkler Design Technician Recruitment video. The video was produced to bring qualified
individuals into the fire sprinkler industry and highlights those aspects of sprinkler design technician work that
are unique, challenging and rewarding. While the video is scheduled to be debuted at the NFSA Annual
Seminar & Exhibition in Orlando later this year, a sneak peek is available right now.
View the video Here
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2009 Sprinkler Quarterly Magazine Media Kit Now Available
NFSA is pleased to announce that the 2009 Sprinkler Quarterly (SQ) “Media Kit” is now available. SQ is now
offering free web banners to qualified advertisers. Be sure to look at all the benefits available when you
advertise in the SQ. In these tough economic times, it makes sense to spend your advertising dollar wisely. SQ
advertising rates are the same as they were in 2006! How many other national publications can make that claim?
More importantly, SQ is the benchmark publication of the fire sprinkler industry. Not only does it contain in-
depth articles by leading experts in the sprinkler industry, SQ is the first place NFSA members look to find the
products and services they need. To get a copy of the SQ Media Kit or to advertise in the SQ, contact our
advertising coordinator, Joanne Genadio at Genadio@nfsa.org or call 845-878-4200, Ext 118.
New NFSA Resource Center Catalog
From its’ beginning in 1989, the NFSA Resource Center was developed to put information about fire sprinklers
and related products into the hands of the people who need it. These materials have been used around the world
by the sprinkler industry, the fire service, building officials and other authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ’s)
and fire prevention educators. New materials are constantly being added to the Resource Center that reflects
today’s advancements in the fire sprinkler industry. If you don’t see something you need, then please call us!
You will note in the catalogue that NFSA offers special reduced prices to our members, which include fire
sprinkler contractors, suppliers and manufacturers, design professionals and fire, building and insurance
officials. To get a copy of the Resource Center Catalog, call me at 914-646-3285 or attend one of our scheduled
Chapter Breakfasts in the Pacific Northwest where I will have them available for distribution along with our
“NFSA Bucks” which can be used to purchase item listed in this catalog.
Sprinkler Saves
Eau Claire Has Two Saves
Reported by Eau Claire Fire Inspector Gary A. Puljas:
Recently our department responded to an elderly apartment facility, "Park Tower Apartments", for a fire alarm
on the 8th floor in an apartment. There was a fire in the bathroom on a towel rack above the toilet. The small
fan, that was on this shelf had the power cord pinched between the rack and wall and became damaged over
time, shorted out. One sprinkler head in this bathroom put the fire out. No injuries were reported and the fire
caused about $2,500.00 in damage.
Then on 1/3/2009 @ 1727 hours, the Eau Claire Fire Department responded to a fire alarm at Banbury Place,
building #17 on the 2nd floor. The fire was in a large area where a workbench and cabinets were located along
with some power tools, and a shop vac. which was full of sawdust and mostly melted. The power saw was
burnt from the fire, but no apparent cause was determined. Some woodworking was usually done in this area.
2 sprinkler heads contained and extinguished most of this fire. This floor was occupied by the "Chippewa
Valley Theatre Guild" and had a lot of their stage props and equipment stored here. Nothing else was damaged
from this fire except the items mentioned and a couple of cabinets. No injuries were reported and the fire
caused about $1,000.00 in damage.
Inspector Puljas stated: “The sprinkler systems did what they were installed for and saved lives and property
damage.
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Wauwatosa Records Sprinkler Activation in Restaurant
On February 6, 2009, Wauwatosa Fire Department responded to an automatic alarm of fire at 837 N. Mayfair
Road (Promenade Mall). Upon arrival, they were directed to respond to the Habanero’s Restaurant at 869 N.
Mayfair Road. When crews entered the building they found one activated sprinkler head in the kitchen. Food
cooking on a natural gas fed burner had spilled over and ignited. The fire was controlled and extinguished in
less than one-minute, reported by kitchen staff. The loss was estimated to be no greater than $1,500.00.
This was submitted by Wauwatosa Fire Department Assistant Chief Jeffrey S. Hevey. He has since left the
WFD to become fire chief of the Menomonee Falls Fire Department and they receive a talented leader.
Brookfield Records Office Building Sprinkler Activation
Incident narrative by Deputy Fire Chief Jeffrey R. Johnson:
On 02/05/2009 at approximately 19:13:58 we were dispatched to 18340 ORCHID CT /18340 ORCHID CT;
APT 201/BROOKFIELD, WI 53045, for the following: Cooking fire, confined to container. We provided the
following services:
We were called to 790 Lakeview Drive for an automatic alarm. Upon my arrival, I went to open the Knox Box
and gain access to the club house. As the engine was arriving we were met by the maintenance person who said
the unit involved was located down the next street and that the sprinkler head had gone off. I followed him to
the scene of the incident and found that a fire had occurred but the sprinkler system had extinguished the fire.
The sprinkler system had been operating for a while after the fire was out which caused more water damage
then needed. Water from the second floor was leaking down through the ceiling. I had crews assist in moving
the items and covering them with a salvage cover.
Engine 2171 crew checked the fire area on the second floor and then pushed the excess water out of the kitchen
through a patio door. Damage to the second floor apartment was primarily due to water damage with minor
damage to a vent hood and the stove. No injuries were reported as a result of this fire.
After completion of our duties, we returned to our quarters.
Kenosha Fire official: Blaze in Dayton Residential Facility Intentionally Set
The Kenosha Fire Department said Wednesday morning a fire that damaged a fourth-floor room at the
downtown Dayton Residential Facility was intentionally set. Fire investigator Guy Santelli said an 80-year-old
man living in the room set a blanket on fire, setting off the facility’s alarms at about 12:05 p.m. Tuesday.
But the fire was brought under control in about five minutes, and damage was contained to the room, Santelli
said, largely because of the building’s sprinkler system. Santelli also said the system enabled the building’s
more than 65 residents to evacuate without any injuries. “The sprinkler system did activate, controlling the fire
in the room, allowing residents to get out of the eight story apartment building safely and unharmed,” Santelli
said. “When firefighters opened the door to the room, the fire was completely knocked down.”
While the Fire Department estimated the damage to be more than $5,000, Santelli said, there was no structural
damage to the building aside from a window that was broken out by firefighters. Most of the damage estimate
includes contents damaged inside the room. Built in 1925, the historic building at Sixth Avenue and 59th Street
known as the Dayton Hotel did not have a sprinkler system until about 15 years ago, Santelli said.
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The system installed in the Dayton is designed with two sprinkler heads in each room. They activate when
temperatures reach 165 degrees. Only one of those sprinkler heads activated during Tuesday’s fire, Santelli
said, dispelling a common misconception that sprinklers are activated throughout buildings when a fire erupts.
If one head could not control the fire, the other one would have activated.
“The fire only activates the sprinkler heads that are closest to the fire,” Santelli said. “The sprinkler system
really allowed people to get from the fifth to eighth floors without any danger.”
Sprinkler Saves – We need this info to help promote the industry
Contact me A.S.A.P. at (262) 245-5255 or e-mail: dannfsa@aol.com if you have information regarding a
Major Fire or Sprinkler Save. A major fire is defined as “one where there is extensive property loss, multiple
death or injury to citizens or firefighters, or any other significant circumstances regarding fire sprinkler
protection or lack thereof.” Sprinkler Saves will help inform others that the systems do work and will provide
life and property saving values.
NFSA Expert of the Day You Can Get Great Advice
While most of the questions are answered within a few hours of being asked, there have been instances where
the response to a request has been longer than what our membership considers optimal. To that end, we are
instituting a series of checks and balances on our end to insure that your request is answered as soon as possible.
You can help us by following one simple procedure. When you have a request that you want answered, please
e-mail your request to eod@nfsa.org or call the NFSA at (845) 878-4200 and ask for the Expert of the Day.
That way, your request will go directly to the individual assigned the duty that day and we will have
mechanisms in place to track it.
Since many of our staff travels extensively, they can’t always respond in a timely manner to their individual
voice mails and emails. When emailing your requests, we would appreciate if you would use our general email
address, eod@nfsa.org, if calling in, please follow the prompt for the expert of the day. These procedures will
allow us to insure quicker responses to your questions. Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
For more information, contact: NFSA, PO Box 1000, Patterson, New York, 12563; by telephone at (845) 878-
4200, by Fax at (845) 878-4215 or at our website: www.nfsa.org
Need an Ordinance? Check this Process
If you are looking for the prototype ordinance, go to the web. Start by entering this: www.municode.com. To
access the needed information, click “online library”, pick state then pick a community you know has
ordinances that favor sprinkler protection. For a quick look at some also go to the Northern Illinois Fire
Sprinkler Advisory Board site at: www.firesprinklerassoc.org and go to the Square Foot Upgrades by Town
button.
MINNESOTA: www.nfsamn.org
MN Fire Protection Advisory Council Meets to Address Residential Sprinkler Training
The MN Fire Protection Advisory Council of MN met on February 12, 2009 to discuss the training of designers
and installers of 13 D fire sprinkler systems. The group includes facilitation by the State Fire Marshal Office
with fire & building officials and representatives of the fire sprinkler labor & merit shop plus plumbers and a
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few other parties are involved. Ron Peil, Response Fire Protection (immediate past Chair of the MN Chapter)
and NFSA MN lobbyist Ray Bohn represent the Minnesota Chapter of the NFSA. North Central Regional
Manager Dan Gengler will be active as well.
The topic of who will be qualified to do the work is the present task of the group. Their intention is to establish
state rule on the qualifications will happen sometime later this year. The state is mini-max and the IRC
language becomes another issue. The group is tasked to establish the criteria for the capable design and
installation of residential systems, including multipurpose
Previous discussion had a proposal of as little as 8-16 hours as the potential training of plumbers. I was invited
to give a program presenting a case for the NFSA Residential Training Program. The intent was to ensure
training of future residential sprinkler designers and installers. Another guest, Brian Cullen, NFSA Best
Practices and insurance risk specialist, was able to address issues of concern regarding insurance premiums for
homeowners and for general liability of “life safety” systems. The group almost passed a motion to require at
least a forty hours to obtain a certificate to do the work. They decided to investigate the possibility of other
programs that could meet the level invested by the NFSA.
MN Fire Residential Sprinkler Coalition on the Move
The Minnesota Residential Fire Sprinkler Coalition has been holding meetings since last February to first get
the inclusion of one- & two-family homes required to install sprinklers. With that happening in Minneapolis
last September the move for the crew has been to work on what it will take to get the public to understand the
benefits of residential fire sprinklers.
Under the leadership of new coalition chair Nyle Zikmund, Spring Lake Fire Department, the group identified
four residential fire sprinkler themes to sub-committee: Educate the fire service, Educate the trades – building
officials, realtors, contractors, plumbers, Educate the Public – policy makers, parents, children and the public in
general and lastly to help establish criteria for consistent enforcement.
The team interacts well and looks to be productive as a subset of the MN State Fire Chiefs, Fire Marshals of
Minnesota and the NFSA-MN Chapter to name a few of the participants. The group knows it is a journey and
has the stamina to work to a successful end.
Fire Sprinkler Forum
The NFSA-MN Chapter has finalizing plans for the second annual MN Building/Fire Code Fire Sprinkler
Forum. Aimed at helping Authorities Having Jurisdiction and contractors find common ground on local
ordinances and municipal polices, the program has been scheduled for March 24, 2009 at the Mermaid in
Moundsview, MN. The session will address issues of understanding residential fire sprinklers for novices to the
concept. A joint committee of NFSA members and AHJ’s has been meeting to establish an educational
program complete with expert presenters. The Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division and the State Fire Chiefs
have actively participated in the process and it is hoped to trigger future educational opportunities for all parties.
8:30 Registration
9:00 Welcome
9:15 IRC/ICC Vote - What Does It Mean For Minnesota?
The Code Adoption Process
Bob Imholte, Fire Safety Resources, LLC
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10:15 Organizing for Residential Sprinkler Code Adoption
Minnesota Residential Fire Sprinkler Coalition
Nyle Zikmund, Chair
11:15 Repeal of Mini-Max in Minnesota. How would this affect your city?
Steve Zacaard, St. Paul Fire Marshal
12:00 Lunch
Guest Speaker
12:45 Multi-purpose Potable Water Piping Rules Update
State Fire Marshal Division
1:45 Build it -- and they will come!
The Illinois Residential Fire Sprinkler Experience
Tom Lia, Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board
2:15 Panel Discussion - response to question survey
Presenters and representative authorities will respond to questions
offered by attendees on the subject matter of the day.
3:00 Conclusion
I thought this next story to be of great interest and note the coining of a new phrase for
“new homes.”
Radenmacher is Firefighter of the Year
Farmington firefighter Zach Rademacher has only been on the department’s roster for four years, but already
he has earned the title of Firefighter of the Year for 2008.
Fire chief Tim Pietsch named Rademacher Firefighter of the Year during the department’s Jan. 16 annual
meeting, held at the Farmington American Legion. According to Pietsch, Rademacher earned the recognition
for his enthusiasm and commitment to the volunteer fire organization. Rademacher consistently attends training
sessions, helps on special projects and responds to most of the department’s calls.
The recipient of the award is determined by a department committee. The recipient is also given the Firemark
Award, which was instituted by Liberty Mutual Group in 1986.
Rademacher also received an antique fire nozzle from retired Farmington firefighter Ron Royce, who collects
antique fire nozzles. Royce’s family has been represented on the Farmington Fire Department for more than a
century, and includes Pietsch.
Annual meeting
The annual meeting also included a presentation by Farmington fire marshal John Powers, who talked about the
adoption of the International Code Council’s Residential Fire Sprinkler Requirement. This is new legislation
which will require fire sprinklers in all new townhomes and single family dwellings, effective Jan. 1, 2011.
Powers referred to a fire in the Park Place of Farmington development last October in his presentation.
Firefighters arrived at the home within 6? minutes of receiving the 911 call, only to find the residence
completely engulfed. The occupants were able to escape unharmed, but the home was a complete loss. The
building materials in the homes being built these days, he said, often contain flammable materials.
“We build throw-away homes,” Powers said. “These homes are perfectly fine until they catch fire.”
The new ICC requirement, he said, will hopefully make those homes safer.
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In addition, Farmington fire chief 2 Troy Corrigan presented the annual report, and rescue chief Todd Kindseth
presented the annual report for the rescue squad. New members of the Farmington Fire Department and those
who have completed specialized training were also recognized.
NFSA MN Chapter Recognizes Ron Peil
NFSA –MN Chapter Chair Ryan
Johnston (R) awards Ron Peil,
Response Fire Protection, for his six
years at the helm of the Chapter.
Ron’s leadership has lead the active
organization into many positive areas.
Ron remains involved serving on the
MN Fire Protection Advisory Council.
WISCONSIN: www.nfsawi.org
Commerce Holds Hearing on Contractor Registration
On January 21, the Department of Commerce held a public hearing to discuss a rule that would require
contractors to pay $100 every four years to register with the agency. Dan Gengler testified on behalf of the
Wisconsin Fire Protection Coalition and emphasized our support for this concept, but our concern that a rule
from Commerce would lack an enforcement mechanism.
A summary of the other groups present and their positions are as follows:
- The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) opposed the measure, voicing concerns that the work
the Department of Commerce is doing on this measure is potentially being duplicated, or will potentially
be overturned, by a similar Department of Workforce Development (DWD) workgroup. ABC would
like to see this rule put on hold until the DWD workgroup finishes its work.
- The Wisconsin Builders Association opposed the measure as well, echoing the concerns of ABC. They
want to make sure that both the Department of Commerce and the Department of Workforce
Development are on the same page in terms of contractor licensing. Additionally, they would like to see
some of the revenue generated by this fee to be used for Builder education programs.
- The Carpenters Union testified in favor of contractor registration. They did however voice some
concerns over how it would be enforced. They wanted to know exactly what information contractors
were going to be required to submit to Commerce, and what steps Commerce was going to take to
ensure that this rule is enforced.
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- The Association of General Contractors testified for information, stating that they would like to see the
funds raised from this registration used for education training for all trades. They also desired to know
exactly what information contractors would be required to submit.
- American Subcontractors Association was also present, but did not testify.
NFSA Online Interactive Seminars Schedule - ***Get Wisconsin CEU’s
The 2009 On-line Technical Seminars have been scheduled. All seminars are conducted by NFSA staff or
consultants on Tuesdays and will start promptly at 10:30 A.M. Eastern Time and run approximately 1.5-hours.
Seminar topics are designed to different levels of understanding, Basic (B), Intermediate (I) and Advanced (A)
levels. There are several seminars that cross two levels.
NFSA Member Cost: $125.00* per seminar per computer
Non-member Cost: $250.00* per seminar per computer
Members Participation Verification w/Certification: $25.00
Members Participation Verification w/Certification: $50.00
March 10, 2009
Applying the Seismic Load Tables
Victoria B. Valentine, P.E., Director of Product Standards – Intermediate
The seismic requirements introduced in the 2007 Edition of NFPA 13 are intended to simplify the sway brace
calculation method for the user. This seminar will examine the load tables that were added and their application
in the sway brace calculation process. In addition, the seismic coefficient, Cp, will be discussed including its
applications. Examples will be utilized to understand the intent and process of determining the different loads
that relate to sway bracing.
March 24, 2009
Small Room Rule
Cecil Bilbo, Jr., C.E.T., Consultant – Intermediate
The Small Room Rule is actually a combination of two separate requirements (and a definition) in NFPA 13
that applies to the spacing and location of spray sprinklers. The Small Room Rule also has a minor application
in the conduction of hydraulic calculations. Many people don’t know it, but half of the Small Room Rule can
also be used for determining discharge from residential sprinklers under certain conditions. This seminar will
review all of these uses for this misunderstood rule.
April 7, 2009
Older Systems and Components
Russell P. Fleming, P.E. Executive Vice President – Intermediate
Older systems and components are often encountered when dealing with additions and renovations of existing
buildings. In many cases the components, designs and installation techniques would not be allowed for a new
installation under today’s rules. This seminar will review the official positions of codes, standards, and listings
relative to what can be kept in use and what must or should be replaced. This seminar will also address the
various fire sprinkler product recall and voluntary replacement programs that have taken place over the years,
discuss their status, and review obligations when encountering those products still in service.
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The topics for the 2009 “BUSINESS THURSDAY” Seminars have been specifically selected to help the fire
sprinkler contractor deal with current problem areas in the business environment. The instructors bring varied
backgrounds relevant to the subjects they will be teaching.
From the desktop of an office or the comforts of a home, one can watch the 1½-hour live-interactive seminar
and receive credit. When registering for the seminar, the registrant needs to inform the NFSA that they are in
need to receive Wisconsin CEU’s. Those needing CEU’s for their 2008 license need to have their 12-hours of
CEU’s completed and submitted prior to March 30, 2008. We can help! NFSA is offering to all AHJ's the
member rate for these live on-line seminars. Order all 10 and save 30%. For more information on this
offer and information on these seminars please contact Dawn at Dawn@nfsa.org or 845-878-4200 x133.
March 19, 2009
Starting a State of Local Residential Fire Sprinkler Coalition
Dan Gengler
The adoption of residential sprinkler language in the 2009 International Residential Code requires a formula and
plan for understanding. With a January 1, 2011 effective date, educating the public on the benefits of
residential fire sprinklers and indoctrinating state and local policy makers will be necessary to pass legislation
requiring total IRC adoption and compliance. Partnerships with the fire service, building officials and the
sprinkler industry to name a few will be needed for success. Participating in this session will help set a course
of coalition development to outreach stakeholders like the general public, developers, home builders, elected
officials and new home buyers.
April 16, 2009
Best Practices Update
Brian Cullen
Brian Cullen is a seasoned professional who effectively uses his skills in leadership, development and coaching
to help clients achieve their most favorable business results. His presentation will include an overview of best
practices and what is being done to help the fire sprinkler industry achieve its goals.
You can attend a NFSA Seminar without traveling to a classroom. For more information and to view a
demonstration, visit our Website at www.nfsa.org, or call Dawn at (845) 8784200 x 133. Check these on-
line programs:
SIX WEEK ON-LINE PROGRAMMING:
NEW HYDRAULICS FOR FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS,
PUMPS FOR FIRE PROTECTION
RESIDENTIAL SPRINKLERS HOMES TO HIGH-RISE
NSPECTION, TESTING & MAINTENANCE OF WATER BASED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
NFSA Academy Trains You at Your Desk
To answer the call for a quality distance-learning program, NFSA has introduced the NFSA Academy. With 80
modules to pick from, dealing with beginner to advanced training, the Academy has something for everyone!
Save on lost billable hours and travel expenses by getting your continuing education needs right from your own
desktop. Log onto www.nfsa.org and click on the banner below and sign up for the NFSA Academy, your competition
is! Wisconsin contractors, get your CEU’s here!
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NFSA North Central Regional In-Class Seminars
Your regional manager is looking to schedule 2009 programming in a facility near you. Please contact at
dannfsa@aol.com or call (262) 245-5255. Check the NFSA web site to register and to link to our other regions
for seminars that may fit your educational needs.
The MN Chapter of the NFSA is sponsoring 4-day programming April 14-17, 2009 at the Firefighters Hall &
Museum, 644 22nd Avenue, Minneapolis. To register, contact Peg at (651) 452-8506.
The McFarland, WI Fire Department is co-sponsoring One-Day Sprinklers for Dwellings (May 6), Half-Day
CPVC Piping Installation Requirements & Procedures (May 7), Half-Day Dry Foam Water Sprinkler System
(May 7) and a One-Day Inspection, Testing & Maintenance of Water Based Fire Protection Systems. Get
Minnesota &Wisconsin CEU’s for attending.
The Oak Creek, WI Fire Department is co-sponsoring three days of seminars June 9-11, 2009. Classes will be
listed in March. Again, get Minnesota &Wisconsin CEU’s for attending.
Contact Dawn Fitzmaurice, NFSA @ (845) 878-4200 ext. 133 for information or registration for any NFSA
training program. Check the NFSA web site, www.nfsa.org, to register and to link to our other regions for
seminars that may fit your educational needs.
Special Discounts:
Register 5 Attendees for One Class; get a 6th Free for that Same Class.
Non-Member Fire & Building Officials: When a building or a fire official wants to take an NFSA “full-day in-
class” seminar, they can get a special discount package that pays for the seminar and also gives them a one-year
membership in the NFSA. The regular seminar fee is $99.00 dollars and the regular one-year subscriber
membership is $85.00 dollars. That totals $184.00 but when you join the NFSA as a subscriber member when
you register for the NFSA seminar, you only pay a combined fee of $149.00 dollars which saves you $35.00
dollars on the total package.
Just make sure you check-off the “F&B” box with red pricing on the seminar registration form.
By becoming a member and taking an NFSA seminar all at the same time, you’re getting valuable industry
information both ways.
Brothers Fire Protection
Elk River, MN (3/24/99) 10 years
Thanks for your industry support!
NFSA Code of Ethics Preamble
The members of the National Fire Sprinkler Association recognize that their work has a direct, as well as
indirect, impact on the quality of life for all humanity. Accordingly, the services provided by NFSA members
require honesty, impartiality, fairness and equity, and must be dedicated to the preservation of life and
property and the further enhancement of the public safety, health and welfare. In practice of their
profession, members
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of the National Fire Sprinkler Association must maintain and constantly improve their competence and
perform under a standard of professional behavior, which requires adherence to the highest principles of
ethical conduct with balanced regard for the interests of the public, clients, employees, colleagues and the
greater fire protection community they serve. Members of the National Fire sprinkler Association are
expected to act in accordance with the provisions of this code of ethics and all applicable laws, and actively
encourage others to do the same.
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