Structure protection is a primary use for sprinklers during wildfires. FERIC
is conducting tests at the Community Fire Protection Treatment
and Demonstration Trials to determine the limit of sprinkler protection capability
against intense wildfires. Three structures (8' x 12') were constructed and finished
as a house with two kinds of siding, double pane windows, soffits and asphalt
roofing. The structures were placed in sites surrounded by dense conifers with
no fuel treatment. Sprinklers will be used as the only protection for the first
burn. Some fuel removal may be done for subsequent burns if the sprinklers are
unsuccessful. The results will provide training information for fire crews that
install sprinklers, and aids for fire managers promoting community and property
protection for the wildland-urban interface.
