Theft of brass fittings poses threat to life, says fire chief
Published 2:29 pm Wednesday, April 4, 2012
The brass fittings critical to the function of fire-sprinkler systems have been stolen from seven properties in Renton, apparently by metal thieves, according to the fire department.
“This is a life safety issue, as we rely on these systems to augment our ability to fight fires,” said fire Chief Mark Peterson.
The roughly 60 fittings are part of fire department connections or FDC. According the Renton Fire and Emergency Services Department, the Renton Police Department has received reports from seven properties that the fire department connections (FDC) have been stolen.
Such connections are typically located on the side of the building or in landscaping between the building and the parking lot or street, according to a City of Renton news release.
The connections are critical because they are used by the fire department to supplement the fire sprinkler system’s water supply and to provide water to the upper floors of buildings, according to the release.
Business owners should check the FDCs regularly to ensure they are still in place and report any missing FDCs to the police and fire department by calling 911. Business owners are encouraged to contact their fire sprinkler contractor for information on what steps can be taken to secure the FDCs and prevent theft at their facility, according to the city.
Metal thieves have targeted other cities as well, including Lacey, Olympia and some areas of Skagit County. Thefts usually occur at night and thieves can get as much as $25 for each fitting but the replacement could be as much as $500, according to the press release.
Salvage yards should never accept any brass sprinkler fitting unless from a licensed fire sprinkler contractor, according to the city. Only licensed fire sprinkler contractors and the fire department will ever need to touch these fittings.
Anyone who sees someone tampering with an FDC should contact the police by calling 911, according to the city.
