Since wind-blown embers can be transported for up to a mile from the flame front of a wildfire, this may be a limitation. The ability of these systems to activate based strictly on an ember exposure has not been determined.
The water supply should be adequate to deliver water when needed, for the time embers could threaten a home.Post-fire assessments have shown exterior sprinkler systems can be effective in helping a home survive a wildfire, but potential issues exist with their use. Water should reach all vulnerable areas for the system to have maximum effect both on and near the home.
Ember ignition of combustibles located on or near the home can result in a radiant and/or flame contact exposure (Photo 2). On the property, in which case the sprinklers are directed at the home from multiple locations surrounding it.Under the eave at the edge of the roof.Sprinklers systems can be mounted in one or more locations, including: Sprinkler systems should be able to protect a home against the three basic wildfire exposures: wind-blown embers, radiant heat, and direct flame contact. The function of an exterior sprinkler system is to minimize the opportunity for ignition by wetting the home and surrounding property.
Fire Safe Marin does not recommend any particular product(s).įire Sprinklers: Home Builder’s Guide to Construction in Wildfire Zones Download Functionality & Installation.Retrofitting exterior materials and designs with home hardening techniques is likely to be more effective than any exterior sprinkler, foam, or gel system.Beware of snake oil! Be alert for manufacturers overselling their product’s capabilities, and know that there are no magic solutions to protect an otherwise vulnerable home from wildfires.Before installing any exterior protection system, consult with your local fire and building officials, and ensure that you have created defensible space, and retrofitted all aspects of your building with the wildfire home hardening techniques outlined on this website.Exterior garden sprinklers are ineffective and can reduce critical water pressure for entire neighborhoods when many are turned on.You must evacuate early, and it is impossible to predict exactly when a home will be impacted by a wildfire. Fire Safe Marin does not recommend any exterior sprinkler system which must be manually triggered on-site.First and foremost: home hardening, through the use of ignition resistant and non-combustible materials, design, and construction is likely to be more effective, less expensive, and will increase the value and longevity of your home. Although many seem to believe these are a “common sense” solution, their potential use cases are limited, and there are many considerations that must be balanced before installing such a system. Many homeowners ask Fire Safe Marin for recommendations on exterior foam, gel, and sprinkler systems.