One of the biggest threats to human life in the UK (and pretty much everywhere globally) is fires. Thirty-seven thousand house fires were reported last year in the UK, with 211 deaths due to fire-related incidents. It is inevitable to prevent fires completely, but it is possible to put them out quickly before they cause damage to life and property.
Here is how new technology – the water mist system – is saving lives by fighting fires.
What is a Water Mist System?
Water Mist System is a fire suppression system based on advanced technology compared to the old sprinkler systems. Water mist systems produce tiny droplets of the size of 50 to 300 micrometres. The tiny drops create a mist with high-pressure water mist nozzles and a compact pump unit.
How does a Water Mist System put out the fire?
Water Mist Systems produce a mist that reaches every corner of the room or area covered by the device. It puts out fires instantly and lowers the temperature of the room significantly within two minutes. The water mist nozzle is triggered by the smoke or heat produced by the fire.
Are Water Mist Systems better than Sprinklers?
Water Mist System is a proven improvement compared to the traditional sprinkler systems because it not only saves lives, but it also saves the water consumption to put out the fire and thus does not require water tanks of thousands of litre capacity like that for sprinklers. The mist system only puts out the fire and does not damage any equipment or furniture, as in the case of sprinklers that drench the whole room to put out a small fire.
How does a Water Mist System save lives?
A Water Mist System saves lives by suppressing two things that harm people evacuating the fire-affected area: heat and smoke. Firstly, in a fire drill, people are trained to drop down and crawl out of the room because the smoke produced by the fire rises. The smoke makes it difficult to see and breathe; many people die of inhaling too much smoke without being touched by the fire itself. The water mist system has the capacity to was away the smoke.
Secondly, the heat from the fire can harm the people evacuating the area. The water mist system reduces the temperature of the area to allow for a safer evacuation.
These two life-saving features are benefits of the water mist system alone, making them a very real consideration for every new development and home renovation in the UK.
How to install a Water Mist System?
You can buy a combination of a compact pump unit, water mist nozzle, hose and pipe fittings and install the device yourself. It would take some expertise to do it correctly and ensure ‘Building Control’ will sign off the work. Alternatively, you can hire professionals to design, install and maintain the system in your home or office.
Need further advice regarding the best water mist system for your property? Feel free to contact the team directly. You can get a free quote from Water Mist Systems to know if it is within your budget and then leave the rest to them.