Guide to NFPA 1600 and Fire Protection During Hurricanes

Timing and the Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in the United States typically runs from June to November, with peak intensity occurring between September and November. Ocean temperatures rise during these months, which fuels more powerful storms, increasing the need for robust fire protection measures. NFPA 1600 Section 6.5.1 recommends conducting risk assessments before hurricane season to identify vulnerabilities in fire protection systems and mitigate risks accordingly.

Post-Storm Fire Risks

Risks After Hurricanes

After hurricanes, the primary concerns shift from wind and water damage to new hazards such as electrical system failures, gas leaks, and flammable debris. These pose serious fire risks, and it is critical to have functional fire suppression systems in place. NFPA 1600’s guidance under Section 7.2 emphasizes the importance of swift restoration of fire protection systems post-disaster to mitigate the risk of fire-related incidents due to compromised infrastructure.

During a hurricane, flooding can severely damage fire protection systems like fire alarms, sprinklers, and suppression equipment. NFPA 1600 Section 7.3.2 outlines that all systems should undergo hydrostatic testing and inspection to confirm operational integrity after exposure to floodwaters. Failure to maintain these systems can result in fires, particularly from damaged electrical systems, as seen during past storms like Superstorm Sandy.

Implementing a Fire Protection Preparedness Plan

Developing a Comprehensive Plan

A Fire Protection System Hurricane Preparedness Plan is essential to ensure a facility’s safety during and after a hurricane. NFPA 1600 Section 6.6.2 advises that businesses must develop a preparedness plan that addresses wind and flood damage, recognizing that floodwaters often cause more severe damage than wind. Flooding can compromise the integrity of fire suppression systems, making proactive planning critical.

Organizations are encouraged to follow NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, which provides detailed instructions on maintaining fire suppression systems. These systems should be regularly inspected and tested, with any deficiencies repaired promptly to ensure functionality during a storm.

Maintenance and Testing Requirements

NFPA 1600 emphasizes the necessity of frequent inspections and maintenance. Section 6.7 stresses the importance of ensuring fire protection systems—such as sprinklers, fire alarms, and suppression equipment—are operational before a hurricane strikes. Systems must be tested and inspected regularly to confirm they are functioning as per design and comply with the NFPA 25 requirements for water-based fire protection systems.

Additionally, fire protection systems should be integrated with backup power solutions. NFPA 110 outlines best practices for emergency and standby power systems that ensure fire protection systems remain operational during prolonged power outages, which are common during hurricanes.

Fire Watch During and After Storms

The Role of Fire Watch

During a hurricane or when fire protection systems are offline for repairs, businesses are required to implement fire watch services. According to NFPA 72, fire watch personnel are responsible for monitoring premises, identifying fire hazards, and ensuring the safety of occupants during periods when fire protection systems are compromised. NFPA 1600 Section 8.6 further emphasizes that fire watch services must be part of an organization’s emergency response plan, ensuring continuous monitoring and immediate action if a fire threat arises.