Thoughts on Fire Blog

#409 – Disaster Preparedness & Fire Protection Systems

January 24, 2025September 6, 2022

Is your fire protection system ready for a disaster? This National Preparedness Month, make a plan for possible emergencies.

#408 – Rigid Coupling vs Flexible Coupling: When to Use Each

January 24, 2025June 21, 2022

The difference between a rigid vs flexible coupling in fire protection is subtle but important. Learn how rigid is used for standard joints while flexible offers seismic protection.

#407 – Fire Sprinkler Flow Switch & Tamper Switch Inspection & Maintenance

January 24, 2025April 27, 2022

Learn the essential inspection, testing, and maintenance tasks for fire sprinkler flow switches and tamper switches.

#406 – ESFR Sprinklers: A Strong Line of Defense in Storage Applications

January 24, 2025April 6, 2022

ESFR sprinklers are designed to suppress fires in high-challenge storage occupancies. Learn how they work and their benefits and drawbacks vs. other systems.

#405 – Guide to OS&Y Valves for Fire Protection Systems

January 24, 2025March 16, 2022

An OS&Y valve is a type of gate valve used in sprinkler and standpipe systems as a control valve. Read this guide to when and why they are used.

#404 – Fire Hose Valve Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Requirements

January 24, 2025February 16, 2022

Fire hose valves on standpipe systems require regular inspections, plus tests and as-needed maintenance. Learn the essential NFPA requirements.

Fire department connection maintenance guide

#403 – Fire Department Connections: A Guide to FDC Maintenance

January 24, 2025January 27, 2022

ITM for a fire department connection involves a quarterly inspection of all FDC components, plus a hydrostatic test every five years.

#402 – What Happened to System Sensor? Introducing Safe Signal™

January 24, 2025January 19, 2022

System Sensor fire sprinkler supervisory devices are now manufactured by Safe Signal. Learn why the name changed—but little else!

#401 – Thank You for Fire Sprinkler Safety: Restaurant Edition

January 24, 2025January 11, 2022

Restaurant fires are more common than you might think, but they are usually minor, and fire protection systems do their job well. Read up on the stats and some examples.

Residential fire sprinklers garages and exceptions

#400 – Residential Fire Sprinkler Protection: Codes, Garages & Other Exceptions

January 24, 2025December 21, 2021

Learn about the roadblocks to widespread residential fire sprinklers and why some areas of homes are exempt from sprinkler coverage in installation standards