All residents should be familiar with these devices and should have a plan for escape in the event of fire. Dispelling Myths About Automatic Sprinklers Despite the proven effectiveness of automatic sprinkler systems in slowing the spread of fire and reducing loss of life and property damage, many people resist the idea of home sprinkler systems because of widespread misconceptions about their operation. The water damage from sprinklers is worse than a fire. The truth is, a sprinkler will control a fire with a tiny fraction of the water used by fire department hoses, primarily because it acts so much earlier. Automatic systems spray water only in the immediate area of the fire and can keep the fire from spreading, thus avoiding widespread water damage.
Sprinklers go off accidentally, causing unnecessary water damage.
Accidental water damage caused by automatic sprinkler systems is relatively rare. One study concluded that sprinkler accidents are generally less likely and less severe than mishaps involving standard home plumbing systems. Sprinklers are ugly. Sprinklers don't have to be unattractive. Pipes can be hidden behind ceilings or walls, and modern sprinklers can be inconspicuous - mounted almost flush with walls or ceilings.