Fire Prevention is the proactive part of a fire department. Asst. Chief Multhaup works closely with Building Official Steve Carson and architects and designers to ensure that all new construction is in compliance with the fire code.

In addition to new construction, existing buildings receive fire inspections.

Public Education is another proactive part of the Bureau. Lt. Larry Strange delivers most of the educational programs. Fifth grade students receive a three part educational program during the year. The Bureau will reach approximately 100 groups per year.

All new built-in fire protection systems (sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, etc.) have their plans reviewed prior to installation and receive an on-site inspection upon installation to ensure compliance to codes.

While basing our program on the importance of public relations, our primary objectives continue to emphasize the prevention of fire, public education and fire investigation. It is through these objectives that enhanced attitudes and safer properties are produced and the occurrence and severity of fires are greatly reduced.

Fire Investigations

A total of 56 formal cause and origin fire investigations were conducted by the bureau, with 12 being determined accidental and 3 being determined incendiary. Of these fires, 2 were reported by fire alarm notification and automatic sprinklers extinguished 1. It is a pleasure to report that no serious injuries or deaths resulted from any of the fires.

Inspections and Plan Review

An important concept of fire prevention is that of conducting physical inspections of properties. During 2003 there were a total of 377 inspections conducted by the Bureau. As a result of the inspections, 471 fire code deficiencies or hazards were addressed in formal response as requiring correction. A total of 135 compliance inspections were conducted with a result of 406 deficiencies and hazards being corrected.

In both existing properties and new construction, there were 70 plans reviewed for construction projects, automatic suppression systems and fire alarm systems. As final approval, 99 acceptance tests were conducted.

Projects completed include the installation of 5473 sprinkler heads and 2017 fire alarm system devices. Based upon ordinary hazard coverage, the sprinkler protection would constitute a total protected area of 711,490-sq. ft. or approximately 16.3 acres.

Public Education

Education continues to be an important part of the fire prevention program. Last year, our program reached a total of 85 groups that ranged from pre-school children to adults. The fifth grade Jr. Fire Inspector program included approximately 398 students. Preschool, kindergarten, first and second grade presentations involved approximately 716 students. There were a total of 2893 persons presented. In addition, station tours and truck visits included approximately 35 various groups. Success of the program is being realized by the safe evacuations from fire and increased effective public use of fire extinguishers.

Bureau members have continued to participate in the training programs that are available to our department. Such opportunities include technology advancement and various code specific updates.

Permits, Licenses & Certificates

Last year, the Bureau issued a total of 30 permits, licenses and certificates for the purpose of flammable liquid installations, extinguishing system installations, and maintenance of portable extinguishers and extinguishing systems.

City-Owned Fire Extinguishers

As an annual requirement, the department conducts an evaluation of all city-owned fire extinguishers. Part-time firefighter Justin Brigl assisted in this effort. A total of 370 extinguishers were physically inspected for availability, proper operation and the correction of any deficiencies. The evaluation resulted in the necessary six-year disassembly maintenance of 27 extinguishers and hydro testing of 40 extinguishers. Throughout the year, various city department personnel brought in several extinguishers for immediate recharge following fire suppression use.

Lock Boxes

The "Lock Box" program started in 1985 with 41 boxes. Bringing the total to 197, there were 8 new lock boxes installed within the city. The boxes have proven themselves effective in providing undamaged building access during emergency responses.

Complaints

With all being effectively resolved, 34 property complaints were reviewed and processed by the Bureau.

For more details of the activities of the Bureau, please see the Annual Report.

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