U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

Four-Fatality Fire in

Residential Board and

Care Facility

Bessemer, Alabama

USFA-TR-043/September 1990

Homeland

Security

U.S. Fire Administration Fire Investigations Program

T

he U.S. Fire Administration develops reports on selected major fires throughout the country. 

The fires usually involve multiple deaths or a large loss of property. But the primary criterion 

for deciding to do a report is whether it will result in significant “lessons learned.” In some 

cases these lessons bring to light new knowledge about fire--the effect of building construction or 

contents, human behavior in fire, etc. In other cases, the lessons are not new but are serious enough 

to highlight once again, with yet another fire tragedy report.

The reports are sent to fire magazines and are distributed at National and Regional fire meetings. The 

International Association of Fire Chiefs assists USFA in disseminating the findings throughout the 

fire service. On a continuing basis the reports are available on request from USFA; announcements 

of their availability are published widely in fire journals and newsletters.

This body of work provides detailed information on the nature of the fire problem for policymakers 

who must decide on allocations of resources between fire and other pressing problems, and within 

the fire service to improve codes and code enforcement, training, public fire education, building 

technology, and other related areas.

The Fire Administration, which has no regulatory authority, sends an experienced fire investigator 

into a community after a major incident only after having conferred with the local fire authorities 

to insure that USFA’s assistance and presence would be supportive and would in no way interfere 

with any review of the incident they are themselves conducting. The intent is not to arrive during 

the event or even immediately after, but rather after the dust settles, so that a complete and objective 

review of all the important aspects of the incident can be made. Local authorities review USFA’s 

report while it is in draft. The USFA investigator or team is available to local authorities should they 

wish to request technical assistance for their own investigation.

This report and its recommendations were developed by USFA staff and by TriData Corporation, 

Arlington, Virginia, its staff and consultants, who are under contract to assist the Fire Administration 

in carrying out the Fire Reports Program.

The U.S. Fire Administration greatly appreciates the cooperation received from the City of Bessemer 

Fire and Rescue Service. Particular thanks go to Bessemer Fire Marshal Bill Avery and also Alabama 

State Fire Marshal John S. Robinson.

For additional copies of this report write to the U.S. Fire Administration, National Fire Data Center, 

16825 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727.

Four-Fatality Fire in Residential

Board and Care Facility

Bessemer, Alabama

Reported by: Jack Yates

Randolph Kirby

This is Report 043 of the Major Fires Investigation Project conducted 

by TriData Corporation under contract EMW-90-C-3338 to the U.S. 

Fire Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Homeland

Security

Department of Homeland Security

U.S. Fire Administration

National Fire Data Center

U.S. Fire Administration

Mission Statement

As an entity of the Department of Homeland 

Security, the mission of the USFA is to reduce life and economic losses due to fire 

and related emergencies, through leadership, advocacy, coordination, and support. 

We serve the Nation independently, in coordination with other Federal agencies, 

and in partnership with fire protection and 

emergency service communities. With a 

commitment to excellence, we provide public education, training, technology, and data 

initiatives.

Homeland

Security

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

THE BUILDING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

THE FIRE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

CODES AND INSPECTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FIRE DEPARTMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FACTORS AND QUESTIONS REGARDING THE FIRE AND PROTECTION EQUIPMENT. . . . . . 4

LESSONS LEARNED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Appendix A – Bessemer Fire Incident Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Appendix B – Letter from the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Appendix C – Copy of Alabama Law Regarding the Sprinkler Industry 

and Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Appendix D – Floor Plan Diagrams Showing Exterior Measurements and Area 

Identifications, Fire Protection Features and Areas of Origin, and Victim Locations . . . . . . 23

Appendix E – List of Photographs and Slides of Bessemer Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Appendix F – SUPPLEMENT: Dormitory Fire Contained to Room of Origin by 

Working Sprinkler System, Montevallo State College, Montevallo, Alabama. . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

The Fire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

The Building. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Fire Protection Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Lessons Learned. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Appendix G – List of Photographs and Slides of Montevallo State College Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

1

Four-Fatality Fire in

Residential Board and Care Facility

Bessemer, Alabama

Investigated by: Jack Yates

Randolph Kirby

Local Contact: Bill Avery, Fire Marshal

City of Bessemer

Fire and Rescue Service

800 North 18th Street

Bessemer, Alabama 35020

John S. Robinson

State Fire Marshal

135 South Union Street

Montgomery, Alabama 36130-3401

OVERVIEW

A fire at the Wilson Home for the Elderly on September 19, 1990 killed four residents. The fire is 

believed to have been caused by an elderly resident dropping lighted pipe tobacco or a match on 

a sofa having a cloth material covering a polyurethane cushion. There was no indication of a slow 

smoldering fire having occurred, making investigators further believe that ignition was most probably a discarded lit match, causing immediate ignition. Eleven other residents were saved by the 

quick action of a 16-year-old son of an employee.

Although the structure was equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, the system failed to extinguish or control the fire because it was being supplied only by a 1/2-inch domestic water line, rather 

than a 2-inch dedicated line off the main which it should have had. The fire resulted in the deaths 

of four residents who were asleep in their rooms in the rear portion of the structure.

Presented in Appendix F is a supplementary fire report which shows, in contrast, the effective control 

of a fire by a sprinkler system. A fire started by a candle was contained to the room of origin in a 

large, 600-bed dormitory at Montevallo State College, Alabama, on October 4, 1990.
2

SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES

Issues Comments

Cause of Fire Smoking material dropped on a sofa.

Casualties Four fatalities.

Fire Protection Features Smoke alarms – some hard-wired and some battery operated. Fire alarm pull 

stations for sound alert only, not connected to fire department. Sprinkler system 

– present but ineffective due to improper installation.

Sprinkler Contractor 

Certification

Sound testing procedure for the business owner/principle. Questionable regarding the actual installers.

Failure of Notification of a Newly

Installed Sprinkler System

No agency capable of examining the system to see if properly installed was 

notified prior to the fire.

Multiple Fire Protection Features Smoke alarms augmenting the sprinkler system saved lives.

13D System in a Domiciliary 

Facility

NFPA 13D verses 13 was not the problem– properly installed, 13D would have 

worked.

CPVC Use Within 13D Systems Properly installed and properly coded material does work.

Post-Installation Test Must be made part of regulations.

THE BUILDING

The original structure was a one-story wood frame six room house believed to have been constructed 

in the late 1930s. Over the years, with what appears to have been two additions, it was expanded 

to 17 rooms.

The interior finish consisted of drywall ceilings and walls and class A floor coverings. All patient 

rooms exited through one of two open sitting rooms making this structure fail to be in compliance 

with NFPA Standard 21, which under the Life Safety Code requires patient rooms to exit onto a 

hallway leading directly to the outside. Installation of a proper sprinkler system would not enable 

the home to overcome this deficiency.

THE FIRE

In the early morning hours of September 19, 1990, a 16-year-old son of a staff employee was awakened by a smoke detector alarm. When he reached the sitting room furthest away from the front 

of the structure, he observed one of the residents sitting on a sofa which was extensively involved 

with flames. He immediately began alerting the residents by yelling and began assisting them to 
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 3

the outside. Many of the residents required walking aids such as canes or walkers. Eleven of the 

16 patients were able to evacuate the structure. During the course of this evacuation, a second staff 

member, a young woman, who had been asleep, apparently panicked, left the building, and was of 

no value to the evacuation effort.

After 10 of the 14 residents were evacuated, the 16-year-old awakened his mother and stepfather in a 

separate building on the property. The mother called the fire department, and information received is 

that the stepfather and son attempted to enter the house again but fire and smoke drove them back.

The alarm was received by the fire department at 2:23 a.m. Equipment was dispatched at 2:24 a.m. 

and arrived on the scene at 2:27 a.m. As a side note, both the local and state fire marshals commented 

on the thoroughness and professionalism of Bessemer’s dispatcher. Bessemer is not on enhanced 9-

1-1 at this time and the call was apparently routed to the dispatcher by the telephone operator. The 

fire marshals indicated that the caller was hysterical and is was only through the dispatcher’s diligent 

efforts that he was able to calm the caller enough to get the proper address.

Upon arrival, the first unit observed heavy smoke and flames coming from a side exit of the structure. The fire was extinguished by the use of hand lines. The son of the staff employee who was 

awakened by the smoke alarm stated that two sprinkler heads in the sitting room did function, but 

the water only lasted approximately 25 to 30 seconds and then stopped. Indications are that this 25 

to 30 second burst of water was not the normal flow or pressure had it been on a properly installed 

system. Rather, it was only the water held in the pipes.

During the rescue and overhaul of operations, four of the residents were found in their rooms 

located off the sitting room which separated them from the outside exit. One victim, a 33-year-old 

male with muscular dystrophy, was found face down in his room next to the bed on the floor; two 

victims, ages 70 and 83, were found in their beds; and one victim, age 80, was found in a wheelchair. 

Carbon monoxide levels of the victims ranged from 56 percent to 78 percent.

There were no other injuries. Fire damage was extensive. Twenty-eight Fire Department personnel 

were utilized to extinguish the fire.

CODES AND INSPECTIONS

This facility was an adult domiciliary licensed by the Alabama Department of Public Health. 

Inspections were made from time to time by the State Health Department, the most recent occurring 

approximately ten days before the fire. As best as can be determined, only minor violations were 

noted during the inspection.

The Bessemer Fire Department did not assume the responsibility for inspecting this facility. Due to 

needed inspections to facilities within their jurisdiction, the Bessemer Fire Prevention Bureau does 

not have sufficient personnel to inspect state regulated facilities on a regular basis. If there are any 

additions, expansions or alterations to a state-regulated facility that require a permit to be issued, the 

Fire Department would normally inspect the property.

As mentioned earlier, the facility did not comply with NFPA 21 and also did not have written 

emergency procedures as required by state codes. They did, however, conduct evacuation drills on 

a periodic basis.
4

FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Approximately six to seven months prior to the fire, an automatic sprinkler system was purportedly 

installed in conformance with NFPA 13D to meet an Alabama Department of Public Health mandate. 

This regulation was to have had all domiciliaries in compliance by the end of 1990. The Alabama 

State Fire Marshal and Department of Public Health both have authority to issue regulations. A 

licensed sprinkler contractor was engaged to install the system which consisted of plastic piping 

(Blaze Master) and residential heads throughout the complex. An examination of the system after 

the fire revealed that the system was being supplied by a 1/2-inch galvanized domestic water line 

flowing approximately five gallons per minute. The sprinkler system should have had its own totally 

dedicated 2-inch line off the main.

The minimum requirement for the sprinkler system under NFPA 13D was 26 gallons per minute 

using water other than from the domestic intake water supply.

The piping arrangement and sprinkler head locations appear to have been in compliance with NFPA 

13D. It appears the sprinkler installation company did not submit plans nor obtain any approval for 

this system which clearly would not have met a function test due to the water system deficiencies.

The building was also equipped with smoke detectors employing both hard-wired and battery operated units. Many of the battery units did not contain batteries, but those that did gave warning of 

the impending danger.

The city water system is considered very good by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The street on which 

this facility is located is equipped with a 6-inch water main connected to a 12-inch main one-half 

block away. A flow test conducted by the Fire Department at a hydrant one-half block away revealed 

a flow of 500 gallons per minute with a residual pressure of 80 pounds.

Residents stated to fire officials that water pressure was poor inside the building. In fact, only one 

toilet or lavatory could be used at one time with adequate flow. It was found that a 1/2-inch pipe 

supplied the only water to the structure.

The water meter is a 5/8-inch Rockwood located near the street approximately 35 to 40 feet from 

the facility. The water meter was not removed as test on both sides of the meter indicated approximately the same flow. Local officials do not believe it malfunctioned in any way.

FIRE DEPARTMENT

The City of Bessemer is approximately 20 square miles with a population of 35,000 people. There 

are five stations with 78 firefighters plus staff personnel. It is a full-paid department. The inspections 

department consists of two inspectors.

FACTORS AND QUESTIONS REGARDING THE FIRE AND PROTECTION

EQUIPMENT

Although there was no written emergency procedures plan, evacuation drills were conducted by the 

staff from time to time, according to the Fire Department.
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 5

The fact that the structure did not fully comply with NFPA 21 regarding designed egress routes was 

a critical factor for those residents having the fire between their rooms and the exit. Their escape 

routes from their room doors would have taken them directly through the area of the fire. The 

windows in their rooms were so high that it would have been extremely difficult for the residents to 

escape through them. It was also felt that lateral spread of the fire was escalated by a hole in the hall 

ceiling where an attic fan had been installed.

It is estimated by the Fire Department that alarm notification may have been delayed as much as eight 

minutes while the son of a staff member was evacuating the residents. This is not to say that what 

he did was wrong. It is felt by some that the fatality count would have been even higher had he not 

acted as he did. His warning the residents of the impending danger most assuredly prevented some 

of them from being overcome.

The sprinkler system’s failure can be attributed to an inadequate water supply, even though the 

Department of Public Health inspected the building to ascertain if the order to install the sprinkler 

system had been complied with before this fire. No one from that agency apparently is qualified 

to attest to the system’s correctness of design and reliability. The fact that this system was installed 

without any prior plans, review and/or approved by code authorities is an indication of lack of 

communication between the installing company and any available inspector, whether that would be 

from the city or state.

The Department of Public Health inspectors are not required to report information of sprinkler 

installation to the state or local fire marshal. Additionally, there is nothing currently in the licensing 

procedures to file pre-installation plans.

There were questions as to whether all persons fully understood the NFPA Automatic Sprinkler 

System Handbook. The Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office thinks that anyone capable of passing 

the required state licensing test should be able to read or interpret anything in the handbook. The 

minimum requirement for a license is that the certificate holder pass a competency test administered 

by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technology (NICET) as a Fire Protection 

Layout Technician--Level III. They feel the code is clear enough for this NICET Level III person.

Questions have also been raised as to whether systems such as this should be allowed to use plastic 

pipe (CPVC) as opposed to metal pipe. Both the state and local fire marshals felt that as long as it was 

properly coded and properly installed, there were no problems using CPVC in 13D installations.

Both fire marshals also indicated that this fire clearly pointed out that one should not rely on one fire 

protection system. They feel in facilities such as this or those that require a higher degree of care, 

both smoke alarms and sprinkler systems should be in place.

The State Fire Marshal’s report will not be completed until all domiciliaries are checked and cleared. 

They will be determining what systems were installed under NFPA 13 versus NFPA 13D and have 

been checked within the last 12 months by approved personnel.

A letter has been sent from the State Fire Marshal’s Office to all domiciliaries to identify the type of 

system installed and who the installer was.
6

LESSONS LEARNED

1. Facilities of this description must comply with NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, Chapter 21.

Even though evacuation drills were conducted, egress routes for the four victims would have 

taken them through the room of fire of origin. That is precisely the situation the code is designed 

to prevent.

2. A notification process to alert inspection agencies of pending sprinkler system installation 

should be included in licensing regulations.

Had an appropriate notification been made to the state or local fire offices regarding the installation, perhaps they would have been able to provide assistance on the system’s layout and 

testing.

3. Installation personnel must be monitored.

Many sprinkler companies operate over a large area and the certificate holder for the license may 

not be able to physically oversee each step of the installer. Perhaps a test of lesser standards could 

be implemented to the actual installation personnel to make certain they can read the layout 

plans, i.e., require installers of safety systems to be certified.

4. Multiple types of fire protection devices are most desirable in this type of facility.

This fire was a dramatic illustration of the fact that multiple safety systems are needed. Had 

there not been smoke detectors in this facility, most certainly the fatality count would have been 

greater. Smoke will be detected quicker than heat will build. With this type of facility, the earliest 

possible warning is most desirable.

5. All people that can sign off a system on this type facility must be qualified.

Information indicated that a Department of Public Health inspector had checked this facility a 

short time prior to the fire. While the level of expertise is not known of this particular inspector, 

it is felt that most inspectors in the Department of Public Health are not trained for conducting 

sprinkler system tests.

6. The use of CPVC within 13D systems does not appear to present any additional problems.

The key to the use of CPVC is that as long as it is properly coded material and properly installed, 

it will serve its intended purpose within 13D systems.

7. A post-installation test must be included in NFPA regulations.

Even though a system appears to be well designed and has been properly installed, the only true 

assessment of its capabilities is by an actual flow test, which must be conducted by qualified 

people. The first test should be immediately after installation and should be repeated in 12-

month intervals at a minimum.
7

Appendices

A. Bessemer Fire Incident Report

B. Letter from the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office for Locating and Identifying Types of 

Sprinkler Systems in Domiciliaries

C. Copy of Alabama Law Regarding the Sprinkler Industry and Requirements

D. Floor Plan Diagrams Showing Exterior Measurements and Area Identification, Fire Protection 

Features and Area of Origin, and Victim Locations

E. List of Photographs and Slides of Bessemer Fire

F. Supplement: Dormitory Fire Contained to Room of Origin by Working Sprinkler System, 

Montevallo State College, Montevallo, Alabama

G. Lists of Photographs and Slides of Montevallo State College Fire

9

Appendix A

Bessemer Fire Incident Report
10 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 11

13

Appendix B

Letter from the 

Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office for

Locating and Identifying Types of 

Sprinkler Systems in Domiciliaries
14 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

October 30, 1990

TO: Administrators

Domiciliaries Located in Alabama

FROM: John S. Robison

State Fire Marshal

RE: Fire Protection Sprinkler Systems

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is attempting to develop information regarding fire protection sprinkler systems, which have been installed in domiciliaries throughout Alabama. 

Specifically, we are attempting to identify the different types of systems used in domiciliaries. This information is very important and can only be obtained from each of you and 

the fire protection sprinkler company who installed your system.

For these reasons, I am asking you to take two or three minutes to provide the information 

requested on the questionnaire, on the reverse side of this letter.

As stated previously, the information is very important, as is the time frame in which the 

information is received. I realize each of you faces a heavy work load, however, if at all 

possible, please complete and return this form to us by Friday, November 9, 1990.

After completing the questionnaire, please mail this back to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, 

135 South Union Street, Room 140, Montgomery, AL 36130-3401.

Your assistance in providing this information is greatly appreciated! Once all of the forms 

have been received, I will be back in touch with you.
15

Appendix C

Copy of Alabama Law Regarding the Sprinkler 

Industry and Requirements
16 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

Each Probate Judge, Sheriff, District Court Clerk, the Clerk and Register of the Circuit 

Court, County Commission Chairman and Municipal Clerk is required by law to 

preserve this slip or pamphlet in a book kept in his office until the Act is published 

in permanent form.

ALABAMA LAW

(First Extraordinary Session, 1988)

—————

Act No. 88-919 S. 165-Senator Langford 

AN ACT

To amend Sections 34-33-1, 34-33-2, 34-33-3, 34-33-4, 34-33-5, 34-33-6 and 34-33-10 of the 

code of Alabama 1975, relating to fire protection sprinkler systems, so as to redefine such systems and 

to further regulate the fire protection sprinkler system business in this state.

Be It Enacted by the Legislature of Alabama:

Section 1. Sections 34-33-1, 34-33-2, 34-33-3, 34-33-4, 34-33-5, 34-33-6 and 34-

33-10 of the Code of Alabama 1975, are hereby amended to read as follows:

“§34-33-1.

“(1) FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER CONTRACTOR. An individual, partnership, corporation, association, or joint venture engaged in the business of installation, repair, 

alteration, addition, maintenance, or inspection of fire protection sprinkler systems. 

This does not include local building officials, fire inspectors, or insurance inspectors 

when acting in their official capacity.

“(2) CERTIFIED FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER CONTRACTOR. A fire protection 

sprinkler contractor who has qualified and received a permit from the state fire 

marshal.

“(3) CERTIFICATE HOLDER. An individual who is listed on the state fire marshal’s 

permit as the responsible managing owner, partner, officer or employee who is 

actively in charge of the work of the certified fire protection sprinkler contractor.
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 17

“(4) STATE FIRE MARSHAL’S PERMIT. The form issued by the state fire marshal to 

a fire protection sprinkler contractor upon application being approved and fee paid. 

The permit shall be issued in the name of the fire protection sprinkler contractor, 

with the name of the certificate holder noted thereon.

“(5) FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER SYSTEM. A system of overhead piping designed 

in accordance with fire protection engineering standards. The system is supplied 

from a reliable, constant and sufficient water supply, such as a gravity tank, fire pump, 

reservoir or pressure tank, and/or connection by underground piping to a city main. 

The portion of the sprinkler system above ground is considered the fire protection 

sprinkler system for purposes of this chapter, and is a network of specially sized or 

hydraulically designed piping installed in a building, structure, or area, generally 

overhead, and to which sprinklers are connected in a systematic pattern. The system 

includes a controlling valve and device for actuating an alarm when the system is in 

operation. The system is usually activated by heat from a fire and discharges water 

over the fire area. Fire protection sprinkler systems shall include the following types: 

wet-pipe systems, dry-pipe systems, pre-action systems, deluge systems, combined 

dry-pipe and pre-action systems, antifreeze systems, and circulating closed loop systems, all as defined in National Fire Protection Association Pamphlet 13, Standard 

for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, latest edition, or National Fire Protection 

Association Pamphlet 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One 

and Two Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes, latest edition.

“§34-33-2.

“The administration of this chapter is vested in the state fire marshal who shall have 

the power to set or make changes in the amount of the fee charged as necessary for 

the administration and enforcement of this chapter.

“§34-33-3.

“It shall be unlawful for any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or 

joint venture to engage in the business of installation, repair, alteration, addition, 

maintenance, or inspection of a fire protection sprinkler system in this state except 

in conformity with the provisions of this chapter. Nothing in this chapter, however, 

shall be construed to apply to fire protection sprinkler system owners who employ 

registered professional fire protection engineers, and skilled workers who regularly 

and routinely design, install, repair, alter, add to, maintain, and inspect sprinkler 

systems on and within the premises of their employer, provided such systems are for 

the owners’ use only.
18 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

“§34-33-4.

“Any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or joint venture desiring to 

engage in the business of fire protection sprinkler contractor shall submit to the state 

fire marshal on standard forms provided by the state fire marshal a completed application. The applicant shall include a fee of $100.00 when making the application. 

The applicant shall designate in the application the name of the proposed certificate 

holder and provide written proof that such individual has passed a competency test 

administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technology 

(NICET) as a Fire Protection Layout Technician – Level III. A copy of the NICET letter of notification that the proposed certificate holder has passed the competency 

test shall be sufficient written proof. The state fire marshal, shall issue, upon receipt 

of the application and fee, a state fire marshal’s permit to a fire protection sprinkler 

contractor who has a current state fire marshal’s permit, or who produces evidence of 

having a current state permit from another state, if such state shall have entered into 

an agreement of reciprocity with the state of Alabama.

“§34-33-5.

If the required fee has been paid, satisfactory written proof from NICET has been 

provided that the competency test was passed when required by this chapter and the 

proposed certificate holder found to be at present a responsible, managing owner, 

partner, officer, or employee of the fire protection sprinkler contractor, the state fire 

marshal shall within 30 days issue a state fire marshal’s permit in the name of the 

fire protection sprinkler contractor with the name of the certificate holder noted 

thereon.

“§34-33-6.

“In no case shall a certificate holder be allowed to obtain a state fire marshal’s permit 

for more than one fire protection sprinkler contractor at a time. If the certificate 

holder should leave the employment of the fire protection sprinkler contractor, he 

must notify the state fire marshal within 30 days. The certificate holder shall not be 

eligible to obtain a state fire marshal’s permit for more than one other fire protection 

sprinkler contractor for a period of 12 months thereafter. If the certificate holder 

should leave the employment of the fire protection sprinkler contractor, or die, the 

contractor shall have nine months to submit a new application proposing designation 

of another individual as the certificate holder for the applicant. If such application is 

not received and a new permit issued within the allotted time, the state fire marshal 

shall revoke the permit of the fire protection sprinkler contractor.
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 19

§ 34-33-7. Expiration of permit; renewal procedure.

The state fire marshal’s permit shall expire annually at midnight on September 30. 

At least 30 days prior, the fire protection sprinkler contractor must submit a renewal 

application. A renewal fee must be submitted with the application. Failure to renew 

the permit prior to the expiration shall cause the permit to be null and void as of the 

expiration date, and it shall be unlawful under this chapter for any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or joint venture to engage in the business of installing, repairing, altering, adding, maintaining, or inspecting a fire protection sprinkler 

system without a valid state fire marshal’s permit. The permit may be reinstated by 

making application as before, and payment of the fee; however, until such a time as a 

new permit is issued, it shall be unlawful for the fire protection sprinkler contractor 

to engage in installing, repairing, altering, adding, maintaining, or inspecting fire 

protection sprinkler systems. (Acts 1982, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 82-774, p. 271, § 7; Acts 

1984, No. 84-250, p. 399, § 1.)

770§ 34-33-8 FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER SYSTEMS § 34-33-9

The 1984 amendment, effective May 7, 1984, 

deleted “and provide a sworn affidavit that the 

certificate holder has supervised the sale, design, 

and installation of at least three fire protection 

sprinkler systems of more than 200 sprinklers in

size (complete with name, description and location of each) in the last six months” at the end of 

the second sentence and inserted “business of” 

near the middle of the fourth sentence.

§ 34-33-8. Presentation of permit to local building official; payment of local license 

fees.

If a certified fire protection sprinkler contractor desires to do business in any part of 

the state, he shall be required by this chapter to deliver to the local building official 

a copy of his state fire marshal’s permit. The local building official shall require a 

copy of the state fire marshal’s permit before issuing a license or building permit. 

The certified fire protection sprinkler contractor shall be required to pay any fees 

normally imposed for local licenses or permits, but the local official shall impose 

no other requirements on the certified fire protection sprinkler contractor to prove 

competency other than proper evidence of a valid state fire marshal’s permit. (Acts 

1982, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 82-774, p. 271, § 8.)

§ 34-33-9. Chapter imposes no limitation on power of municipality, etc., to regulate 

work of contractors.
20 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

Nothing in this chapter limits the power of a municipality, county, or the state to 

regulate the quality and character of work performed by contractors, through a system of permits, fees, and inspections, which are designed to assure compliance with, 

and aid in the implementation of, state and local building laws or to enforce other 

local laws for the protection of the public health and safety. Nothing in this chapter 

limits the power of a municipality, county, or the state to adopt any system of permits 

requiring submission to and approval by the municipality, county, or the state, of 

plans and specifications for work to be performed by contractors before commencement of the work. If plans for a fire protection sprinkler system are required to be 

submitted to and approved by any municipality, county, or the state (or any departments or agencies thereof), the plans must bear the permit number of the certified 

fire protection sprinkler contractor or proof that the person, firm or corporation that 

designed such fire protection sprinkler system is an exempt owner under section 34-

33-3. The official authorized to issue building or other related permits shall ascertain 

that the fire protection sprinkler contractor is duly certified by requiring evidence of 

a valid state fire marshal’s permit. (Acts 1982, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 82-774, p. 271, § 

9; Acts 1984, No. 84-250, p. 399, § 1.)

The 1984 amendment, effective May 7, 1984, inserted 

the next-to-last sentence of this section.

§ 34-33-11. Disposition of funds collected pursuant to chapter; grants and donations allowed.

All funds collected pursuant to this chapter shall be deposited in the state treasury to 

the credit of the state fire marshal’s fund authorized by section 24-5-10. The state 

fire marshal shall be authorized to expend moneys from the state fire marshal’s fund 

for the administration and enforcement of this chapter. The state fire marshal shall be 

allowed to receive grants and donations from associations, firms, or individuals who 

are interested in the upgrading and quality of fire protection sprinkler systems. (Acts 

1982, 2nd Ex. Sess., No. 82-774, p. 271, § 11.)

§ 34-33-12. Penalties.

Whenever the state fire marshal shall have reason to believe that any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or joint venture is or has been violating any provisions of this chapter, he or his deputy or assistant may issue and deliver to such 

individual, partnership, corporation, association, or joint venture an order to cease 

and desist such violation. Failure to comply with any order under this section shall 

constitute a Class B misdemeanor and shall be subject to punishment within the 
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 21

limits and as provided by state laws. In addition, the state fire marshal may impose 

a civil penalty not to exceed $250.00 for each day the violation exists. Violation of 

any provision of this chapter or failure to comply with a cease and desist order shall 

be cause for revocation of the state fire marshal’s permit. (Acts 1982, 2nd Ex. Sess., 

No. 82-774, p. 271, § 12.)

Collateral references. – 53 C.J.S., Licenses, § 56.

“§34-33-10.

“(a) This chapter also applies to any fire protection sprinkler contractor performing 

work for any municipality, county, or the state. Officials of any municipality, county, 

or the state are required to determine compliance with this chapter before awarding 

any contracts for the installation, repair, alteration, addition, or inspection of a fire 

protection sprinkler system. Bids for such shall be accompanied by a copy of a valid 

state fire marshal’s permit.

“(b) All architects and engineers preparing plans and specifications for work involving fire protection sprinkler systems to be contracted in the state of Alabama shall 

include in their invitations to bidders and their specifications a copy of this chapter 

or such portions thereof as are deemed necessary to convey to the invited bidder, 

whether he is a resident or nonresident of this state and whether a license has been 

issued to him or not, the information that it will be necessary for him to show evidence of license before his bid is considered.”

23

Appendix D

Floor Plan Diagrams Showing

Exterior Measurements and 

Area Identifications,

Fire Protection Features and Areas of Origin,

and Victim Locations
24 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

WILSON HOME FOR THE ELDERLY

772-9-6-91-1

Laundry

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bedroom

Bed 

P.S.

E.L.

Kitchen

Living

Room

Dining

Living

Room

Storage

Porch 

P.S.

C

34' 6'

KEY

= Area of Origin

= Victim locations

C = Closet

A.F. = Attic Fan

P.S. = Fire Alarm Pull Station

E.L. = Emergency Lights

Diagram prepared with assistance

of Alabama State Fire Marshall

N Laundry

A.F.

E.L.

Laundry

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bedroom

Bed 

P.S.

E.L.

Kitchen

Living

Room

Living

Room

Storage

Porch 

P.S.

C

34' 6'

KEY

= Area of Origin

= Victim locations

C = Closet

A.F. = Attic Fan

P.S. = Fire Alarm Pull Station

E.L. = Emergency Lights

Diagram prepared with assistance

of Alabama State Fire Marshall

Laundry

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bedroom 

Bedroom

Bedroom

P.S.

E.L.

Kitchen

Living

Room

Living

Room

P.S.

C

34' 6'

KEY

= Area of Origin

= Victim locations

C = Closet

A.F. = Attic Fan

P.S. = Fire Alarm Pull Station

E.L. = Emergency Lights

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bedroom

Bed 

P.S.

E.L.

Kitchen

Living

Room

Dining

Living

Room

Storage

Porch 

P.S.

C

34' 6'

KEY

= Area of Origin

= Victim locations

C = Closet

A.F. = Attic Fan

P.S. = Fire Alarm Pull Station

E.L. = Emergency Lights

Diagram prepared with assistance

of Alabama State Fire Marshall

Laundry

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bed 

Room

Bedroom

Bed 

P.S.

E.L.

Kitchen

Living

Room

Living

Room

Storage

Porch Ramp

P.S.

C

34' 6'

KEY

= Area of Origin

= Victim locations

C = Closet

A.F. = Attic Fan

P.S. = Fire Alarm Pull Station

E.L. = Emergency Lights

Diagram prepared with assistance

of Alabama State Fire Marshall

Laundry

Bed 

Room Bed 

Room

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

A.F.

E.L.
25

Appendix E

List of Photographs and Slides of Bessemer Fire

Slides and photographs are included with the master report at the U.S. Fire Administration. The items 

asterisked below are presented on the following pages.

*1. The exterior of the structure as seen from the northeast and looking toward the southwest. 

The front is to the extreme right. The structure did not face a true north, but for this report it 

will be shown as that. The greatest roof damage is in the north half.

2. An exterior view from the northeast toward the southwest showing the separate structure 

where office and manager’s quarters were located. These are located approximately 25 feet to 

the west of the main structure. The front building is the office while the second building was 

the manager’s sleeping quarters.

*3. An exterior view of the east side near the southeast corner, showing the rooms where victims 

were found.
26 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

1. The exterior of the structure as seen from the northeast; the front is to the extreme right. 
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 27

2. An exterior view from the northeast showing separate structure where office and manager’s quarters were located.
28 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

3. An exterior view of the east side, showing the rooms where victims were found.
29

Appendix F

SUPPLEMENT

Dormitory Fire Contained to Room of Origin

by Working Sprinkler System

Montevallo State College

Montevallo, Alabama

Investigated by: Jack Yates

Local Contacts: John P. Lee, Chief of Security

Dutch Beasley, Chief of Maintenance

OVERVIEW

On October 4, 1990, a fire occurred in the “Central” wing of “Main Hall.” This is a large coed dormitory housing 600 beds. There are three wings to the dormitory: West, Central, and East.

THE FIRE

The fire occurred in the girl’s section of “Central.” The fire began as a result of an unattended candle 

that ignited class A common combustibles as it melted down. The college stated there were strict 

rules regarding the use of candles or any flammable material and the girls were in violation of these 

rules. Disciplinary measures were taken by the college in regard to the fire.

The positive aspect of this fire is that it was totally controlled and extinguished by the sprinkler system. The only direct damage was to a desk and some clothing next to it. There was water damage 

as a result of the sprinkler action. The fire occurred at approximately 10:00 p.m. The flow alarm on 

the sprinkler and smoke detector alerted the Montevallo Fire Department as well as campus security, 

but upon arrival it was found that the fire had been controlled and extinguished.
30 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

THE BUILDING

Main Hall at Montevallo started out as one dormitory and expanded three wings as the college grew. 

The original sprinkler system was installed in 1939, and the last renovation was thought to be in 

1985.

FIRE PROTECTION FEATURES

The system is designed and laid out in accordance to NFPA 13 standards. It has a 75,000 gallon 

reserve tank adjacent to the domestic water supply tank. It is 25 feet higher than the domestic water 

tank. Booster pumps are between the two tanks giving it an additional 400,000 gallons of water in 

reserve. Each wing has separate cutoff valves in the event that additional reserves are needed to be 

diverted to one of the other wings. Each system has its own alarm system and test valve.

The college personnel indicated they had a greater confidence in multiple alarm systems as opposed 

to relying on one. They indicated in most cases the smoke alarm would alert more quickly than the 

flow alarm within the sprinkler system.

LESSONS LEARNED

1. Maintenance Chief Dutch Beasley stated the only problem was in the failure to open the 

drain valves in the system after the activated heads had extinguished the fire.

Mr. Beasley indicated some water damage could have been prevented had these valves been 

opened as opposed to the water continuing to come through the heads. Mr. Beasley indicated 

that perhaps in university or college situations the installation company should supply or show 

the police or security personnel plans of the system and a basic working knowledge of how the 

sprinkler system works.

2. Montevallo State College is soundly convinced of the value of a sprinkler system and multiple alarms.

They indicated over the years there have been other minor incidents such as this, but the early 

warning and automatic suppression systems have prevented any major loss to property and any 

loss to life.
31

Appendix G

List of Photographs and Slides of 

Montevallo State College Fire

Slides and photographs are included with the master­ report at the U.S. Fire Administration. The items 

asterisked below are presented on the following pages.

*1. Exterior view of “Main Hall.” West Wing is to the left, Central Wing is in the center, and East 

Wing is to the right. The fire referred in this report occurred in Central Wing. The reserve tank 

for the sprinkler system is shown over West Wing.

*2. The 75,000 gallon reserve tank and the 400,000 gallon domestic water supply tank with 

dormitories in the background the system is designed to protect.
32 U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series

1. Exterior view of “Main Hall.” West Wing is to the left; Central Wing, where fire occurred, is in the center; and East Wing is to the right.
USFA-TR-043/September 1990 33

2. The 75,000 gallon reserve tank and the 400,000 gallon domestic water supply tank with 

dormitories in the background the system is designed to protect.