Sprinkler system halts flat fire in high-rise

A kitchen fire in a high-rise block of flats was quickly contained this last week thanks to the activation of a single sidewall sprinkler head, once again highlighting the life-saving and damage-limiting benefits of automatic sprinkler systems in residential building.

Firefighters from Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AFRS) were called at 13:06 to a fire in a purpose-built 10-storey residential block on 15th October. Upon arrival, crews found the fire had been effectively contained to a flat on the eighth floor, with damage limited to a frying pan on the kitchen hob and minor smoke staining on nearby walls and ceilings.

The incident caused no injuries and was swiftly extinguished with minimal intervention, allowing operational crews to be released to attend other emergencies.

Richard Bobruk, Business Fire Safety Officer at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, said the incident is a textbook example of how sprinklers work to save lives and property. “Automatic fire sprinkler systems are a proven life safety measure,” said Bobruk.

This latest activation is a direct result of Bristol City Council’s proactive decision to retrofit sprinklers across its 62 tower blocks. The fire service praised the council’s foresight in investing in residents' safety. The sprinkler system in this building was installed in accordance with BS 9251 and the Approved Document B (Volume 2, Appendix E), ensuring it met all relevant safety and performance standards.

As more buildings are retrofitted with sprinkler systems, BAFSA is urging duty holders and building managers to develop effective business recovery plans as part of their emergency protocols. These should include clear on-site instructions to support firefighters in managing water flow from sprinklers and isolating systems after a fire is confirmed to be out.

Further guidance is available in the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) information file, Sprinkler Protected Buildings: A Guide for Responsible Persons and Duty Holders which can be downloaded here.

Read the full incident report on https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/bristol-kitchen-high-rise-residential-building-sprinkler-activation/