FEDERAL OFFICIALS ISSUE URGENT SAFETY WARNING OVER DECADES-OLD RECALLED FIRE SPRINKLER HEADS AFTER FATAL BLAZE
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Tyco Fire Products LP are sounding a renewed alarm regarding millions of recalled Central Sprinkler fire sprinkler heads manufactured between the mid-1970s and June 2001. Officials warn that these aging units may still be active in homes, businesses, and residential facilities nationwide, posing a severe, potentially fatal fire hazard.
The Hazard and Recent Tragedy
The original recall, first issued in July 2001, stems from rubber O-ring seals that can degrade over time due to minerals and salts found in water. This degradation can cause the sprinkler heads to completely fail to activate during a fire.
The renewed warning follows a devastating July 13, 2025, fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts, which claimed ten lives and injured dozens. Investigators revealed that the facility failed to replace dozens of recalled sprinkler heads even though they had been flagged during a prior safety inspection.
Actionable Steps for Property Owners
CPSC and Tyco Fire urge property managers, building owners, and consumers to take immediate safety measures:
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Inspect Systems: Check all fire suppression systems immediately to identify any recalled Central Sprinkler units.
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Hire Professionals: Contact a qualified fire-protection professional to replace any identified recalled sprinkler heads.
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Review Records: Audit historical maintenance logs to verify whether previously identified recalled units were actually removed.
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Spread Awareness: Alert HOAs, facility administrators, schools, hospitals, and nursing homes—particularly those responsible for older structures housing vulnerable populations.
Note: Building owners can consult the CPSC website or contact Tyco Fire Products LP for comprehensive guidance on identifying and replacing the recalled sprinkler heads.
