A Working Local That Knows Its' Responsibilities 

For almost four years PFFG-IAFF Local 947 has been placing sprinkler systems in Habitat for Humanity houses free of charge.  “It got started by chance, really,” says retired Captain Joey McIntyre. 

“I saw an article about it, approached the Local, and was asked to get more information.” From there Captain McIntyre met with Assistant Chief Floyd Fritz of the Pinehurst Fire Department.  “Chief Fritz had gotten a grant through FEMA,” says Capt. McIntyre, “and they incorporated with Habitat for Humanity.  The grant purchased all the tools: ladders, hand tools, everything. We met with Habitat locally, got everything in order and the Local voted to sponsor the program.” 

With all the tools and equipment purchased with grant money, the only thing left were the materials.  “Companies all over the U.S. got lined up to donate the material.”

The first Habitat for Humanity house equipped with an automatic sprinkler system by Local 947 members was done on October 10, 2003.  “It was on Pine St. in Battalion Two,” says Captain McIntyre.  Since that time Local 947 has equipped approximately 75 houses with automatic sprinkler systems.

“Most of the houses are one story, slab construction houses but we did do a two story house over on McElvin St.”   That same two story home turned out to be the first activation of a sprinkler system installed by Local 947.  “There were some kids cooking and the pan flared up.  The sprinkler activated and the fire was put out before it got going good,” says Captian McIntyre.

Local 947 has also installed sprinklers in three houses built specially for handicap residents.  “The main difference is that we put more sprinkler heads in these houses and we also put them in the bathroom,” explains Capt. McIntyre. 

When asked how people can get involved Capt. McIntyre explains, “Anybody and everybody who wants to help are welcome.  It’s a real simple process and only takes about four hours.  We usually start at 8am and are done by noon.  The Local then takes everybody out for lunch.  We would also like to see groups form from each Battalion and more folks get involved.”

In closing Capt. McIntyre explains, “It’s not just me.  We’ve had a lot of help over the years.  Church groups have participated, Jim Mooney customized our trailer for us, a lot of folks have done a lot of work.  We have a working Local that know its’ responsibilities.”

The Local installs sprinklers in approximately 12-20 houses each year.  If you would like to get involved call the union office at 336-275-3044 or email Captain McIntyre at vpiaff947@triad.rr.com