Thoughts on Fire Blog

#277 – Guide to Fire Hose Reels and Racks for Standpipe and Hose Systems

November 23, 2022October 2, 2019

Learn what the NFPA, ICC, and other organizations have to say about installing and phasing out fire hose reels and fire hose racks in standpipe and hose systems.

Sprinkler check valve installation shotgun valve

#276 – Sprinkler Check Valve Installation and Selection: Shotgun Riser Check Valves

October 1, 2019

With threaded ports for gauges and a drain valve, backflow-preventing sprinkler check valves can expedite the code-compliant installation of system risers. Read on to learn more about the design and installation of “shotgun” risers—and how they compare to common alternatives.

#275 – Fire Watch Procedures: When and How It’s Required

December 13, 2022September 26, 2019

Learn when a fire watch is needed according to ICC, NFPA & OSHA and how to conduct this oft-misunderstood fire prevention technique.

Virginia blocks residential sprinkler mandate

#274 – Virginia Votes Against Residential Fire Sprinkler Mandate; Firefighters Criticize the Decision

September 25, 2019September 25, 2019

A Virginia fire chief’s attempt to add residential fire sprinkler requirements to building codes has failed. Learn about the debate over sprinklers.

Corrosion and dirty water in fire sprinkler pipe

#273 – Discolored Water in Fire Sprinkler Pipes: MIC Corrosion & Other Causes

September 24, 2019September 24, 2019

MIC corrosion, damaged fire sprinkler pipes, and discolored water often go hand-in-hand. Learn what causes color, viscosity, and smell in dirty sprinkler water.

Fire inspection software for facilities managers

#272 – Facility Maintenance: Fire Inspection Software is the Efficiency & Compliance Solution

September 23, 2019

Learn how fire inspection software ensures life safety by helping facility managers perform faster, more reliable inspections, testing, and maintenance of fire protection systems.

#271 – The Deadliest Fires in U.S. History: The MGM Grand Fire in Las Vegas

August 20, 2024September 19, 2019

QRFS explains how the tragic MGM Grand Fire in Las Vegas in 1980 sparked tougher life safety codes at hotels and casinos.

#270 – How Fire Bells and Water Motor Gongs Work with Fire Risers

January 31, 2020September 18, 2019

Fire alarm bells connected to the system riser can provide first responders with essential information—and encourage passersby to quickly call the fire department. Learn what NFPA standards have to say about joining fire alarm bells and water motor gongs to fire risers in both standpipe and fire sprinkler systems.

Classifying deficiencies in a fire sprinkler inspection

#269 – Standpipe and Fire Sprinkler Inspections: Classifying Deficiencies and Impairments

October 17, 2019September 17, 2019

Classifying deficiencies and impairments during standpipe and fire sprinkler inspections is difficult. Learn the NFPA guidelines and the system for color-coded tagging.

#268 – How Do I Find a Qualified Standpipe or Fire Sprinkler Contractor?

September 13, 2019

Let QRFS’s crash course on state licensing and NICET certification help you find authorized and eminently skilled standpipe and fire sprinkler contractors.