Sprinklers in flats

We are in the process of installing sprinkler systems in all our tower blocks. The video below will give you an understanding of what the sprinklers are there for and how they will protect you from fire in your home.

Why do you need sprinklers?

Sprinklers save lives. Having sprinklers in your home essentially puts a firefighter in the room. They protect your flat from fire around the clock. They are also great for the environment as they use limited water, with only the sprinkler nearest the fire activated in an emergency due to heat detectors.
Looking after your sprinklers
Sprinklers will be serviced and kept in good working order by us, however, you also need to do your bit. Please remember to:
- take extra care when decorating. Don’t tamper with, paint or damage the sprinkler heads or cover plates
- make sure that tall items of furniture or ornaments do not shield the sprinkler heads as this may obstruct the flow of water
- never hang anything on the sprinkler
If you are carrying out any activities that might affect the sprinklers, then please ask for advice and contact us.

Richard's story

A fire broke out in a tower block of ours, where the customer had been using a chip pan and fallen asleep. Their life was saved by the activation of the sprinkler in their kitchen. The fire happened in the early hours of the morning, and was put out quickly with minor fire damage to the flat and water damage to the impacted area only. Key takeaways are:

you should always 'watch what you heat' - read more kitchen fire safety tips
sprinklers save lives by putting a firefighter in the room, at all times
test your fire alarms weekly #TestItTuesday
if you have a chip pan, swap it for a safer alternative
please contact us if you'd like fire safety advice from your Tenancy or Fire Safety Officer

Thanks to my sprinklers and working fire alarms, I was kept safe in my flat. You don't think it will happen to you, but it did, and I'm so thankful my life was saved.
Resident of Boscobel Crescent

Image Courtesy Of Cheshire Fire And Rescue Sprinklers January 2022 1

Lane Court Kitchen Fire Jan 2022 With Sprinkler Activated

This property did not have sprinklers fitted when a fire started in the kitchen, causing significant damage before being put out by the Fire Service. Photo courtesy of Cheshire Fire and Rescue.

This flat in a tower block in Wolverhampton had sprinklers fitted when the customer was using a chip pan and fell asleep while cooking. The fire alarm was activated which alerted the customer. The sprinkler in the kitchen quickly put out the fire, with minimal damage to the property and personal belongings, and before the occupant had become overwhelmed by smoke.