State Fire Marshal investigates thefts of important parts that could disable sprinkler systems

BATON ROUGE, La. (WGNO) - The Louisiana State Fire Marshal is investigating a rash of thefts of important sprinkler system parts from a hospital, theatre and a department store.

We actually noticed it when wepicked it up to see what it was,Greg Flathers owner of the Ultimate Party Store in Hammond told NBC33.

The fire hose connector was stolen from the side of the building a week ago.

Representatives from fire and police departments from Hammond, Kenner and Jefferson Parish will join the Fire Marshal for a News Conference Thursdayin Baton Rouge to discuss the investigation into the thefts.

The hose connectorsallow fire departments to pump much-neededwater into burning buildings.

Without that, the fire will spread more. You know, we might get alittle bit of a jump because the sprinkler system will work but wewont be able to produce additional water to it to help control itfrom spreading or getting worse, saidJohn Smith, Fire Chief at the Hammond Fire Department.

Hose connectors are installed in thousands of commercial and residential buildings throughout our area including hotels, schools, nursing homes and theatres.

Flathers said each connector costs about $1,000 to replace.

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State Fire Marshal investigates thefts of important parts that could disable sprinkler systems