Editor:

I don't understand all the fuss about the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in businesses and residential homes. One of the most effective ways to minimize the loss of life and property is through automatic sprinklers.

The cost of fire in America is enormous. Every year, America loses 3,200 civilians and the fire service loses around 100 firefighters with approximately 16,000 injuries caused by fire. This is just what is reported. The dollar loss is more than $10 billion, when you include the loss of revenue caused by economic activity, the numbers increase to $107 billion.

Automatic fire sprinklers are not new, they have been in existence more than 100 years. The devices can reduce by at least 57 percent the rate of deaths and decrease property loss by 68 percent. This is because the sprinkler contains and extinguishes the fire in the location of origin.

Current building codes require sprinklers in commercial buildings and many jurisdictions have instituted ordinances that require sprinklers in residential occupancies as well.

In Jan. 29, a group of fire chiefs lobbied Congress for the "Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act." In essence, this program would provide incentives to business owners to retrofit buildings with fire sprinkler systems.

For an individual who has some knowledge in this field, I say; "Capitol Hill, it is about time."

Frank Garcia

Harlingen