Structural Protection Units

Background

The Community Sprinkler Protection Unit project was announced in April 2004 as an integral part of fulfilling the Filmon report recommendations on "Firestorm 2003". Subsequently, the Province allocated funding to UBCM for the development of the units, based on the equipment used in Ontario and Alberta, but customized to maximize protection in situations unique to British Columbia. A Steering Committee comprised of representatives from UBCM, the Ministry of Forests, the Office of the Fire Commissioner, BC Fire Chiefs and Canadian Forestry Service was formed, and three "unique to BC" Community Sprinkler Protection Units were built.

The units are designed to be deployed during an interface fire, to dampen roofs and areas around structures and to prevent sparks or embers from igniting structural fires. The contents of one Sprinkler Protection unit can protect between 30 - 35 homes. Training for the use and deployment of the units is now being carried out, and is available to firefighters from both public and private sectors. A pre-requisite fire training background is required. As these are trailer units, they are easily moved anywhere in the province within 12 hours of dispatch.

It should be emphasized that this is considered a pilot program and dispatch will be triggered by Unified Command at the time of an evacuation alert on a highest priority basis. It is hoped that, as others see the successes of such equipment in use, they will be encouraged to purchase similar equipment for their region or community.

Program Information Links

Sprinkler Protection Program Report - April 18, 2006

Highlights and News

Community Sprinkler Photo Gallery

You can also view photographs from the Community Structural Protection Units Project by checking out the photo gallery.

Contact

Shelley Webber
Union of BC Municipalities
525 Government Street
Victoria, BC V8V 0A8

Phone: (250) 356-5134
Fax: (250) 356-5119
Email: swebber@ubcm.ca