How is a sprinkler wedge used to stop flow from an activated sprinkler?

A sprinkler wedge is specifically designed to create a seal that impedes the flow of water from an activated sprinkler head. By pushing two wedges together from opposite sides, the wedge forms a barrier between the orifice of the sprinkler and the deflector. This effectively blocks the flow of water, allowing for mitigation of the situation without having to disable the entire system or rely on other methods which may not immediately stop the flow.

This technique is particularly useful in fire scenarios where swift actions are necessary to control water damage or to facilitate firefighting efforts. The precise placement of the wedges is crucial for maximizing effectiveness, and it targets the area where water is being expelled, addressing the problem directly at its source.

Other methods, like pulling the wedge away from the sprinkler or applying pressure directly to the sprinkler head, might not effectively stop the flow and could potentially worsen the water discharge. Turning off the water supply is also not always an immediate option in all situations, making the use of wedges a practical solution in managing the flow of water from activated sprinklers.