Author(s): Peter D. Rogers; Neil S. Grigg

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Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: The use of water distribution systems to combat fires emerged in the United States during the nineteenth century as rapid urbanization lead to the outbreak of uncontrolled fires (Anderson, 1988). Clearly, bucket brigades and water wagons were inadequate in combating large conflagrations. As the construction of water distribution systems progressed, so did each city's capability to combat fire. However, many issues such as inadequate water pressure, deficient coverage to outlying areas, and insufficient flow rates for regions at high elevations limited a community's ability to combat fires. This paper examines the process in which insurance underwriting firms and prominent organizations including the American Institute of Architects and the American Water Works Association collaborated in developing and implementing fire flow requirements that have saved many lives. The paper also discusses some of the impacts that fire flows have on property insurance and water main design.

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Year: 2009