What is a characteristic of sidewall sprinklers?

Sidewall sprinklers are designed to disperse water horizontally across the room rather than directly downward like traditional sprinklers mounted on the ceiling. This horizontal distribution is especially beneficial in areas where the ceiling height is low or where obstacles may prevent effective coverage from ceiling-mounted sprinklers. Sidewall sprinklers are typically installed on walls, allowing them to effectively cover spaces such as hallways, stairwells, and certain types of buildings where horizontal coverage is essential.

The other options do not align with the primary function or application of sidewall sprinklers. For instance, they are not limited to installation on ceilings, nor are they primarily used in outdoor settings or fixed in overhead positions. Instead, their unique design caters to specific scenarios where horizontal water distribution is required for effective fire suppression.