An area Fire Department reminds all Lakes Area Residents of the importance of preparing buildings for the upcoming days of below freezing temperatures.

The release below is from the Branson Fire Department:

With sub-freezing temperatures expected to begin on Monday, January 6, and last throughout the week, the City of Branson Fire Department is urging commercial property owners to take proactive measure to prevent fire sprinkler systems from freezing, which can lead to costly water damage and compromised safety.

Automatic fire sprinkler systems are critical to life safety and property protection in commercial properties such as shopping centers, motels, hotels, condominiums and local attractions. These systems are designed to suppress fires in their early stages, ensuring safe evacuation routes and minimizing property damage. 

However, extended exposure to freezing temperatures can jeopardize their functionality. “When fire sprinklers systems are exposed to sub-freezing temperature for several days, pipes and domestic water lines can expand and fracture,” explained Fire Chief Ted Martin. “This can result in devastating water damage or a complete failure of the sprinkler system to operate during a fire.”

Chief Martin also noted that issues can arise even after temperatures begin to rise. “As frozen water thaws and expands, it can cause delayed fractures in pipes, leading to leaks or flooding,” Chief Martin added.

To avoid these risks, the Fire Department recommends property owners:

Maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, even in unoccupied or seasonally closed buildings. This allows radiant heat to protect pipes throughout the structure.
Inspect attic spaces and other areas to ensure there are no exposed pipes susceptible to freezing.
Sub-freezing temperatures next week make these precautions especially urgent. Branson businesses and attractions, some of which operate on reduced hours or close temporarily during the winter months, are particularly vulnerable to damage if heating systems are not maintained.

The same precautions apply to domestic water lines, which can also freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs and potential flooding.

“These small but essential steps can prevent significant damage to your property and ensure your sprinkler systems function as intended to protect lives and property,” added Chief Martin.

For more information about fire sprinkler maintenance and winter preparedness, contact Branson Fire Department at (417) 243-2780.