<P> A fire sprinkler system is an active fire protection method, consisting of a water supply system, providing adequate pressure and flowrate to a water distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers are connected . Although historically only used in factories and large commercial buildings, systems for homes and small buildings are now available at a cost - effective price . Fire sprinkler systems are extensively used worldwide, with over 40 million sprinkler heads fitted each year . In buildings completely protected by fire sprinkler systems, over 96% of fires were controlled by fire sprinklers alone . </P> <P> Leonardo da Vinci designed a sprinkler system in the 15th century . Leonardo automated his patron's kitchen with a super-oven and a system of conveyor belts . In a comedy of errors, everything went wrong during a huge banquet, and a fire broke out . "The sprinkler system worked all too well, causing a flood that washed away all the food and a good part of the kitchen ." </P>

What is the purpose of a sprinkler system