FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 4, 1999

Bill Metten
Diversified Communications
(302) 234-9936

      MA 99-09

Media Advisory

Federal Lab to Stage Dramatic Fire Test in Delware's Capital

The National Institute of Standards and Technology invites reporters to cover a test of fire technology. Researchers from the federal government’s premier fire research laboratory will burn a fully furnished living room to show how quickly a blaze erupts in a typical home fire. Fire scientists will take thermal measurements during the fire, and a narrator will explain how rapidly temperatures are rising. Researchers also will test a data monitoring system that could be used by firefighters in the future. The system will be attached to a mannequin positioned next to the burning room. The fire is likely to reach flashover within five minutes, meaning that all the combustible material in the room will be aflame, blowing the windows out. Scientists from NIST’s Building and Fire Research Laboratory will conduct the tests.

Many people are unaware of how little time they have to escape from a burning building; the test will provide a graphic demonstration of how quickly fires spread. NIST is holding the test in conjunction with Legislative Appreciation Day for Delaware Firefighters.