12 in. x 6 in. Auto Sprinkler Shut Off Sign for FDCs
This 12 in. x 6 in. Aluminum sign features 1/2 in. lettering that reads* “Auto Sprinkler Shut Off”. With its highly visible white background and red finished lettering, this sign helps locate, identify, or provide instruction in Fire Department Connection (FDC) applications. It has 4 pre-drilled holes for ease of installation and helps building owners comply with International Code Council (ICC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requirements for FDCs to be easily and quickly located during an emergency.
For fire department connections (FDCs) to be effective, they must be easy to locate. The International Fire Code (IFC), section 912.2.1, recommends that FDC signs be placed on the street side of buildings, fully visible and recognizable from the street or nearest point of fire department vehicle access.
To facilitate emergency access, building owners should record the location of all FDCs on the property, remove all obstructions within 3 ft. around the connection (including bushes, fences, and other objects), and use road markings to indicate that the section around a fire department connection is reserved for emergency vehicles only.
We recommend consulting with your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure the FDC and/or signage requirements in your area.
*Sign/Decal may have more or less text depending on application. See picture on product page for full text details.
Why are FDC Signs important?
Fire Department Connection (FDC) Signs are important for a variety of reasons and are crucial components of fire protection systems in buildings.
FDC signs help firefighters quickly identify the location of fire department connections when they arrive at a building. During a fire emergency, time is of the essence, and clear signage ensures that responders can rapidly access the necessary equipment. When firefighters can easily locate and connect their hoses to the fire department connections, they can initiate firefighting operations more swiftly. This can help contain and extinguish the fire faster, minimizing property damage and potential risks to occupants.
Fire codes and regulations often require buildings to have clear and visible FDC signs. Compliance with these regulations ensures that a building's fire protection systems are properly equipped and marked, reducing legal and liability risks for building owners and managers.
While FDC signs are primarily designed for firefighters, they can also serve as indicators for building occupants during an emergency evacuation. People evacuating a building might see the signs and understand the location where firefighters will be working.
In summary, FDC signs streamline the response process, enhance firefighter safety, and contribute to more efficient fire suppression efforts, ultimately helping to mitigate property damage and save lives.
