Fire Deaths in Single-Family Homes – New Research Studying Fuel Volatility and Ventilation

Most fire deaths occur in residential buildings, specifically in single-family homes. The increased airtightness correlating to energy efficiency in these buildings could be changing the way fires develop, potentially impacting the safety of occupants and responding firefighters. This presentation will outline research currently underway at the University of Waterloo on fire and smoke spread relative to fuel volatility and ventilation. The outcome of the research is expected to better inform the impact of airtightness, smoke alarm location, upholstered furniture volatility, and firefighting response to help identify methods and strategies to reduce fire deaths in single-family homes.

Peter Senez of Senez Consulting Ltd will highlight his current research programme at University of Waterloo and the potential impact on building design and FPE practice.

Date:  May 14, 2019
Time: Registration and Reception 5:30pm
Location: False Creek Yacht Club (1661 Granville Street)
Cost: Members - $35; Non-members $40. Please bring cash or a cheque payable to BC Society of Fire Protection Engineers to cover the cost of dinner.
Registration Deadline: May 10, 2019

Free parking is available in the Yacht Club parking lot.