DIY guideBuilding fire safety
Check the sprinkler control valves are open and secured (look only)
Find each valve that controls the fire sprinklers and check, by looking only, that it's fully open and locked or sealed. Never turn one: a shut valve leaves the building unprotected.
- 15 to 30 min
- 7 steps
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7 steps
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Look in the sprinkler or riser room, on each floor's pipe, and outside on a post. The last inspection report lists them.
On a valve with a wheel, a long stem sticking out through the wheel means open. A short stem means shut.
Never turn a valve, even to check it: that's the fire protection company's.On a valve with a flag, or a post with a small window, the flag or the window should show open.
Each valve should have a chain and lock, or a plastic seal, holding it open. Check the seal isn't broken.
Most valves have a small box clamped on that tells the alarm panel if the valve moves. Check it's there and not knocked loose.
Write down each valve, whether it's open and whether it's sealed, in the building's fire log.
A valve that's shut, part shut or has a broken seal: don't turn it. Call the fire protection company now and tell the building manager.
What you need
- The last sprinkler inspection report
- The building's fire log
- A flashlight
Call a pro if
- A valve is shut or part shut
- A seal or lock is broken or missing
- The switch box is loose or knocked off
Handyman says: Don't turn it. Call your sprinkler company.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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