July 8, 2022
OSWEGO, IL – A fire sprinkler stopped a fire from spreading at Classic Cinemas Kendall 11 movie theater. According to Captain Alec Keenum, Oswego Fire Protection District, a faulty water heater in the boiler room on the second floor caused the fire. One fire sprinkler controlled the fire while people were evacuated.

“Due to good housekeeping habits and properly maintained and working sprinklers and fire alarm systems, a single sprinkler kept the fire in check and limited the spread to the room of origin while safely evacuating the near 800 patrons,” Keenum said.

One theater employee was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. No other injuries were reported. The theater was open the next day.

Sources:  Captain Alex Keenum, Fire Marshal, Oswego Fire Protection District and WSPY FM News

July 6, 2022
SOUTH BARRINGTON, IL – A single fire sprinkler extinguished an arson fire at the Eggology restaurant inside The Arboretum of South Barrington.

According to Fire Inspector Marc Quattrocchi, East Dundee Fire District, “The sprinkler system did exactly as designed. If it did not activate, extinguish the fire, and scare away the perpetrators with the activation of the fire alarm system, more damage or injuries could’ve occurred.” No injuries were reported.

Sources: Fire Inspector/Investigator, Marc Quattrocchi, East Dundee Fire District

July 1, 2022
CHAMPAIGN, IL – Fire sprinklers stopped a fire from spreading at AMC Champaign 13 movie theater that appeared to be intentionally set. Fire department spokesperson Randy Smith said employees discovered smoke. When crews arrived, they discovered up to three sprinklers activated and extinguished the fire in the theater seats. No injuries were reported.

Sources:   The News-Gazette