Final preparations are being made for a demonstration on the use of sprinkler systems in domestic properties.

Tomorrow morning, the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service will deliberately start fires in the living rooms of two houses, earmarked for demolition, in Hazel Crescent, Pulrose.

One will have a sprinkler system in operation, and the aim will be to show how effectively they can slow down the spread of flames.

Fewer than one per cent of homes on the Island have sprinkler systems fitted, and assistant divisional officer John Murtagh says people don't realise how much difference they can make (audio file attached):

There will be more of that interview with John Murtagh in tomorrow morning's Mandate.