The Silvas' sprinkler system is also tied into their central alarm network, which will alert the fire department if a sprinkler goes off. Arc-fault circuit interrupters detects the dangerous electrical arcing that can start fires. As a final preventative measure, master electrician Allen Gallant installed an arc-fault circuit interrupter in the Billerica house. Soon to be required by many building codes, these devices detect the kind of dangerous electrical arcing that can occur when a power cord gets frayed or old wiring begins to fail within a wall. Arc-fault interrupters first will be required on circuits that serve bedrooms, where many fires begin thanks to power cords run under carpets, where they can become worn, and plugs that get squished against the wall by pieces of furniture.
People often underestimate fire's power and speed and overestimate the time they have to escape.
Ultimately, these misconceptions contribute to the 4,000 fire deaths that occur in the U.S. each year. Fortunately, with proper use, installation and maintenance of today's fire protection technologies, you can greatly reduce that risk and make a life-saving difference for your family . Thanks to the National Fire Protection Association for its contributions to this article. For more information on resources used in the Billerica House, visit our Resource Directory . This Old House and the This Old House window and This Old House Online are trademarks of WGBH Educational Foundation.