CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — In Clarksville, an ordinance that would require sprinklers in stacked duplexes just passed its first reading.
Around 75 to 80% of U.S. civilian fire deaths occur in homes. According to fire officials, the vast majority of these deaths occur in homes without automatic sprinklers. The primary cause of death is smoke inhalation due to rapid fire growth. Officials say when they activate, sprinklers control or extinguish fires in 97% of the cases. Fire death rates are reduced by up to 80 to 90% in sprinkler-protected buildings.
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Assistant Chief of the Fire Prevention Division Mike Reed said the construction of a stacked duplex without a sprinkler system could create a severe risk to residents, including children and the elderly. Some Clarksville City Council members say the sprinkler requirement should go beyond just stacked units.
Ward 10 council member Stacy Streetman said the ordinance is something they must do to protect citizens…