Access to what matters, when it matters

FAQs

• What are Fire Department Connections (FDCs), also known as Storz Connections or Standpipe Connections?

  Fire Department Connections (FDCs) are the primary access points for firefighters to supplement a building's water-fed fire sprinkler and/or standpipe systems during a fire.

  
• What role does the FDC/Storz/Standpipe connection play in the operation of your building's fire sprinkler system?
  When responding to commercial structure fires, the Fire Department 'fire attack crews' connect fire hoses directly to building fire sprinkler systems via Fire Department Connections. Fire hoses are also connected to standpipe outlets (typically installed in multi-story buildings and multilevel garages), allowing for rapid deployment and manual application of water to the fire. These vital connections provide the additional volume and water pressure necessary to effectively fight and contain fires. 
• What are the risks associated with open, unprotected Fire Department Connections (FDCs)?
  • When left unprotected, fire department connection openings are prime targets for theft, vandalism, debris, nesting animals, and freezing during cold weather. When damaged or clogged, exposed FDC openings may malfunction and fail to provide the water supply firefighters need to protect life and property.
  • Stolen or damaged fire department connections place the entire building, assets and its occupants at risk.
• What are locking Fire Department Connection (FDC) caps or plugs: FDC Lock, Storz Lock, Standpipe Lock?
  Knox FDC products are locking devices that secure and protect both the intake and discharge sides of water-based fire protection systems.
• Why use secure Knox Fire Department Connections (FDCs) Plugs or Caps vs. 'breakaway' or brass caps?

  Unprotected fire connections may need to be professionally flushed each time an FDC cap is found missing to ensure debris hasn’t compromised fire protection system readiness. Professional sprinkler system flushes may be required and could cost up to $1,500. Knox FDC Locks, Storz Locks, and Standpipe Lock are purchased once and are locked onto the connection, to be removed only by the Fire Department.

  
• What are the benefits of securing your buildings Fire Department Connections and standpipe systems with Knox FDC Locks, Storz Locks and Standpipe Lock?
  • Theft Prevention: If your area is prone to theft, Knox FDC Locks with Swivel-Guard™ cover the entire FDC swivel connection, thus minimizing the possibility of fire system brass being stolen or damaged.
  • System Reliability: Unprotected fire connections may need to be professionally flushed each time an FDC cap is found missing. To ensure debris hasn’t compromised system readiness, professional sprinkler system flushes costing upwards of $1,500 may be required.
  • Saves Money: Avoid expensive, repetitive system backflushes and brass replacement connections.
  • Safety: Protects your building, occupants and firefighters. Due to the locking feature of Knox FDC Locks, Storz Locks and Standpipe Lock, pipes and outlets are protected, ensuring the line is clean with maximum flow of water to sprinkler systems.
  • Helps Firefighters: Ensure quick access for firefighters when every second counts.
• Which is the right Fire Department Connections (FDCs) product for my building?

  Knox offers FDC products to protect both the intake and discharge sides of water-based fire protection systems—whether your building is new construction or you're looking to retrofit an older system.

  

  Ready to order? To view products for your specific jurisdiction, click here. If you're not sure which products you need, give us a call at 1-800-KNOX-BOX (Press #1 for Customer Service) - we'll be glad to help.

• I've received the Fire Department Connection (FDC) Caps. How do I install or lock the Knox FDC Locks, Storz Locks and/or Standpipe Lock?
  After you purchase your Knox Fire Protection System product(s), contact your local fire department for further installation instructions.