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Anexternal water spray system (EWSS) is adomestic externalfire sprinkler system designed to protect homes frombushfires andwildfires. While external spray systems have long been used in fire protection for buildings and facilities[citation needed], EWSS refers to domestic bushfire/wildfire systems.
The types of systems vary greatly from a singleimpact sprinkler placed on aroof, systems installed duringconstruction with sprays on allwindows anddoors, and small sprays damping gutters[citation needed]. Some are installed usingcopperpiping and sprays while others use commonPVC piping.
Usage depends on type ofrisk and belief of effectiveness. Copper piping is used to withstand hightemperatures that may be experienced during a fire front or for higher reliability[citation needed] for inceiling installations. External PVC piping is used where failure with exposure to highradiant heat is acceptable[citation needed], as at the time the system is considered have "done its job". This is a matter of personal judgment.
There is a lack of scientific research regarding EWSS. Other issues that may affect the effectiveness of an EWSS:
Commercial sprays designed for EWSS are available[citation needed], but most systems use commonly available irrigation sprinklers/sprays.
External spray systems for buildings are well documented for protection from fires in adjacent buildings[citation needed]. However, up there is little published scientific research on scientific information pertaining to the effectiveness of EWSS under varying wildfire conditions.[1]
