LVC Companies is honored to be recognized as a featured source in a recent article published by ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine, highlighting the lasting impact of the tragic Our Lady of the Angels School fire and the evolution of fire and life safety in schools.
The article, “The Fire That Changed Prevention” by Susan DeGrane, reflects on the 1958 disaster in Chicago that claimed the lives of 92 students and three nuns—a devastating event that reshaped fire safety codes across the United States. The tragedy exposed critical gaps in early detection, notification, and building protection systems, ultimately driving widespread improvements in fire alarms, fire sprinkler systems, egress design, and code enforcement that continue to save lives today.
As part of this important industry conversation, LVC’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mike Botten, was selected as an expert voice, reinforcing LVC’s position as a trusted authority in fire alarm and life safety systems. His inclusion underscores the company’s deep expertise and ongoing commitment to protecting people, property, and communities through advanced fire and life safety technologies and best practices.
At LVC Companies, fire and life safety is more than a service offering—it is a responsibility. For decades, LVC has partnered with customers across industries to design, install, and maintain comprehensive fire alarm, fire protection, emergency communications, and integrated security systems. From code-compliant fire alarm systems and mass notification solutions to advanced detection technologies, fire suppression and security systems, voice/data networks, and monitoring, LVC delivers solutions that help organizations respond faster, mitigate risk, and ensure occupant safety.
The lessons of the Our Lady of the Angels fire continue to resonate today. Modern codes now require systems such as distributed fire alarms, automatic sprinklers, and fire-resistant construction—measures that significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic loss. LVC Companies remains at the forefront of implementing these standards, helping customers not only meet compliance requirements but exceed them.
“Being featured in ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Magazine is a testament to LVC’s leadership in the fire and life safety space and its role in advancing industry knowledge,” said LVC President and CEO Bert Bongard. “As risks evolve and technologies advance, LVC continues to lead with expertise, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to safety.”
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR is an award-winning, industry-leading magazine for the electrical construction sector. The magazine is published in print and online formats by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and is distributed to 80,000+ subscribers each month.
Headquartered in Golden Valley, Minnesota, with a national services division and regional offices in northern and southeast Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and Phoenix, Arizona, LVC has delivered customized, code-compliant technology solutions for more than 40 years. Contact LVC Companies today to learn more.
