Maryland Fire Sparks Sprinkler Debate

When a townhouse on fire quickly collapsed in Gaithersburg on Monday neighbors were shocked. Firefighters call it routine and an example of the problem with modern construction techniques.

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service spokesman Pete Piringer says lightweight construction materials used in recent decades for home construction are generally sturdy, safe and meet code requirements. But according to Piringer, when exposed to fire, the components quickly break down and can lead to a rapid collapse of the structure.

In Monday's fire, the collapse occurred minutes after firefighters were ordered out of the burning townhouse. Piringer says interior firefighting efforts are more effective, but with lightweight construction, conditions for firefighters generally deteriorate much more rapidly than homes built prior to the 1970s.

This is not a new issue, but it is one Piringer believes is a good lesson for homeowners. Piringer says a combination of smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are the best way to ensure your safety and to protect your property. Montgomery County requires sprinklers in all new homes and apartments.

9NEWS NOW has contacted the National Association of Home Builders. A spokesperson has requested more time to provide a response. We will pass it along when it is available.

Republished with permission of WUSA-TV.

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