posted on Monday, August 11, 2008 3:58 PM
by
klehan
Watchung, NJ, Updating Fire Alarm Ordinance
The borough of Watchung,
New Jersey's Fire Prevention, Fire and Police Departments are working together to amend a borough ordinance covering false alarms.
Fire Inspector Gary Greves said the three departments decided to update the existing ordinance, which he said has been in place for years.
The amendment will ask homeowners whose alarm systems are wired and monitored through the central police station to notify borough authorities when any work, particularly contracting work, is under way.
Greves explained that the amendment seeks to make sure residential fire, burglar, carbon dioxide or medical alarm systems are in good, working order.
A reduction in responses to false fire alarms will be also be a byproduct of the amendment for the borough's all-volunteer Fire Department, the fire inspector added.
"Painting fumes, sanding dust and power equipment are all potential alarm triggers," Greves said.
The amendment has had a first reading and a public comment period is planned for the community.
Upon approval of the amendment, educational outreach will be the first prong of the ordinance's enforcement.
"We would update and educate our residents through the fall newsletter," Greves said. Enforcement of increased penalties for false alarms would be the next step.