The effectiveness of sprinklers in loss-prevention was underlined when a fire at a factory in Inverness-shire was successfully extinguished in 15 minutes.

The fire took place on the 1^st November at around 07:45 when an Acetylene torch manifold failed in a timber processing factory.

The sprinkler system was quickly activated, bringing the fire under control within 15 minutes and leaving just 10% of the workshop damaged. The sprinkler also played a vital role in cooling the gas cylinder that supplied the torch, mitigating the danger of an explosion.

18 fire fighters from Highlands & Islands fire and rescue service attended the scene and continued to cool the cylinder until they were certain the danger was passed.

Ross Nixon of Highlands & Islands Fire and Rescue Service, passed the information on to the National Fire Sprinkler Network, a not for profit group who campaign for better use and development of sprinkler technology.

Last month we reported on a Government e-petition to enforce the installation of sprinklers in all new dwellings.