In the early morning hours of May 11, 2024, Evesham Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a waterflow alarm in the unit block of Shawnee Court. Upon arrival, fire crews discovered a kitchen fire that had been controlled at its origin by the activation of the fire sprinkler system. The alarm associated with the sprinkler activation prompted a full evacuation of the eight-unit apartment building. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the fire damage was confined to the kitchen area.

This incident is a prime example of a fire sprinkler system functioning as designed. A single sprinkler head prevented the fire from spreading, allowing occupants ample time to evacuate safely. Property loss was minimized, enabling residents to reoccupy the unaffected apartments immediately after the incident. Damage in the affected apartment was limited to minor water remediation and the replacement of appliances.

Evesham Fire-Rescue advocates for the installation of fire sprinkler systems in all buildings, even when not mandated by building codes. These systems save lives and significantly reduce property damage.