Bushfires and wildfires are an ever-present threat in Australia and many parts of the world. As fire seasons grow longer and more intense, homeowners and businesses are turning to active protection measures such as bushfire sprinklers, also known as wildfire sprinklers, bushfire spray systems, or wildfire spray systems. These systems provide an added layer of defence, helping to protect properties from ember attacks, radiant heat, and direct flame contact.

Bushfire Sprinklers: A Global Approach to Fire Protection

Bushfire sprinklers are widely used across Australia, the United States, and Canada, where wildfires are a major risk. In Australia, they are commonly installed on rooftops, fences, and around properties in bushfire-prone areas. The National Construction Code (NCC) and Australian Standard AS3959 provide guidelines for bushfire-resistant construction, but bushfire sprinklers serve as an active protection measure beyond passive building designs.

In North America, wildfire sprinkler systems are used extensively in California, British Columbia, and Alberta. The U.S. Forest Service has even deployed mobile wildfire sprinkler systems to protect remote structures and national parks. In Canada, homeowners in fire-prone regions install rooftop sprinklers as part of their FireSmart protection plans.

Benefits of Bushfire Sprinklers

Bushfire sprinklers provide several key advantages for property owners looking to reduce their fire risk:

1. Protection from Ember Attack: Flying embers can ignite homes before the fire front arrives. Sprinklers create a wet barrier, reducing the likelihood of spot fires around the property.
2. Reduction of Radiant Heat Impact: Bushfire sprinklers lower surface temperatures, reducing the risk of ignition from extreme heat. This is particularly important for protecting windows, roofs, and exposed timber structures.
3. Increased Humidity and Cooling Effect: A well-designed spray system increases moisture in the air, making it harder for embers to start fires. This can slow down fire spread and improve conditions around the property.
4. Firefighter and Property Safety: By wetting down structures before a fire arrives, sprinklers help create a defensible space, increasing the likelihood of a home surviving the fire. This can also assist emergency services if they need to defend the property.
5. Automated or Remote Activation: Modern wildfire sprinkler systems can be automated or remotely controlled, allowing property owners to activate them even if they have evacuated.

Design Principles for an Effective Bushfire Sprinkler System

To maximise effectiveness, bushfire sprinkler systems must be carefully designed. Here are some key principles to follow:

1. Strategic Placement: Sprinklers should be installed on rooftops, around the perimeter of buildings, and near vulnerable assets such as decks, fences, and gas bottles. Spraying water downward and outward provides the best coverage.
2. Water Supply Reliability: A dedicated water source is essential. This could be a large water tank, swimming pool, or dam. Mains water should not be considered as a source of water due to its unreliability during a bushfire.
3. High-Quality Pump System: A reliable pump (preferably petrol- or diesel-powered) ensures consistent water pressure even if electricity is cut off during a fire. An electric pump could be considered providing a suitable battery is available to provide power in the event of power failure within the utility network.
4. Heat and Smoke-Resistant Components: All pipes, hoses, and fittings should be resistant to high temperatures and UV degradation. Metal components (such as brass or stainless steel) are more durable than plastic alternatives.
5. Automation and Remote Access: Smart systems with automatic activation (triggered by temperature or smoke sensors) and remote operation via mobile apps provide additional security, allowing homeowners to activate sprinklers from a safe location.
6. Coverage of Surrounding Vegetation: Sprinklers should also cover garden beds, trees, and surrounding vegetation, as embers can ignite dry fuel sources near buildings.
7. Regular Testing and Maintenance: Like any fire protection system, regular testing is crucial. Pumps, water lines, and sprinkler heads should be checked before fire season to ensure they function properly.

Investing in Active Fire Protection

Bushfire sprinklers provide an additional layer of protection in fire-prone areas. While they are not a stand-alone solution, they significantly increase a property's chance of survival when combined with fire-resistant building materials, asset protection zones, and emergency preparedness.

As fire risks continue to grow, investing in a well-designed bushfire sprinkler system is a smart choice for property owners who want to safeguard their homes, businesses, and communities.

Agilus CEO Mark Potter at FPA Australia

We are pleased to announce that Agilus CEO Mark Potter will be presenting at FPA Australia next Tuesday, February 25th, 2025. Join us to learn more about bushfire sprinklers and their role in protecting properties. Register here for this informative session.

If you’re considering a bushfire sprinkler system for your property, contact Agilus for expert advice and tailored solutions.