Statement of Support to Emmitsburg Town Officials by the VHC 

At our regular monthly business meeting of February 11, 2003, members of the community's fire/rescue department passed the following motion: 

"The membership of the Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) is unanimous in its support of residential fire sprinkler systems in recognition of their universally superb history of life safety to both occupants and fire personnel alike. VHC members urge Officials of the Town of Emmitsburg to actively pursue this concept as it can contribute significantly to assure the survival of a strong, effective and efficient community-based volunteer fire service for decades to come." 

It is our firm belief that it is time for our community to step up to this important life safety opportunity by making the installation of such systems mandatory for all new residential construction while also actively encouraging the retrofit installation of these systems in the community's existing residential housing stock. 

Our personnel stand ready to assist Town Officials, developers, builders, property owners, residents and others to more fully appreciate the value of such systems and their importance in saving lives from the tragedy of fire. This is especially important now because additional growth without fire sprinklers will unquestionably impact negatively on our ability to provide quality services. 

Residential fire sprinklers have been used successfully for many years. Safety from fire is our primary intent and this can help insure our ability to keep pace with increasing demands caused by growth. It is critical that our public policy officials stand united with the men and women of the VHC regarding this important endeavor. 

Hundreds of communities across the nation, both small and large, have already passed such legislation while hundreds more are currently undertaking the establishment of legislation. Numerous resources are available to assist in understanding the initiative. We will gladly help secure professionals and reference material to assist. 

Thank you for your interest in learning about the benefits of residential fire safety sprinkler systems that both assure safety to life and protection of property. 

Sincerely, 

Timothy M. Clarke

President