The McKinney Fire Department (MFD) responded to an incident at 2:45 p.m. Dec. 25 at the SPCA of Texas, Russell H Perry Animal Care Center, 8411 Stacy Rd. Upon arrival, first responders noted the fire alarm system had activated and reported heavy smoke conditions in a rear laundry room.  Further investigation noted a fire in the dryer had activated the fire sprinkler system and suppressed the fire within the dryer itself until fully extinguished by responding fire personnel.  A single sprinkler head is credited for the minimal fire damage, saving an estimated $1.1 million in property loss and reinforcing the value of fire sprinkler systems in commercial businesses.  Twenty-nine MFD personnel and investigators from the fire marshal’s office responded to the fire. No injuries were reported to any of the animals. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental.

“Another sprinkler save successfully demonstrates the effectiveness of automatic fire sprinkler systems in a commercial occupancy. Undoubtedly, this single sprinkler activation prevented a major loss to the SPCA of Texas,” said Deputy Fire Marshal Andrew Barr.

For additional information on fire protection systems, code requirements or other fire prevention topics, visit mckinneyfire.org or call 972-547-2862.