So would a sprinkler system have saved Eastern Guilford?

Assistant Fire Chief David Douglas says says yes, while school board member Anita Sharpe has her doubts.

Of course, the primary objective is to save people, not save the building. This Journal article points out that evacuation during fire drills in Forsyth County averages three minutes–pretty damn quick for a group of teenagers.

Firewalls and fire-retardant doors in lieu of a sprinkler system can also help save the building until the fire department arrives.

The Journal also reports that Eastern Guilford and its contents are insured for $20 million, with the system paying a $5,000 deductible.