News and Notes

A 2004 U.S. telephone survey found that 96% of the households surveyed had at least one smoke alarm. Roughly half of home fire deaths result from fires in the small percentage of homes with no smoke alarms. Roughly 70% of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Homes with smoke alarms (whether or not they are operational) typically have a death rate that is 40-50% less than the rate for homes without alarms. In one-quarter of the reported fires in homes equipped with smoke alarms, the devices did not work. Households with non-working smoke alarms now outnumber those with no smoke alarms. When smoke alarms fail, it is most often because of missing, disconnected or dead batteries. See a new link for more information on smoke alarms.

If your facility (other than a one- or two-family dwelling) is planning to build a new building or a remodel of your existing building please take special note. The Fire Marshal will require written notice from your licensed architect or engineer 30 days prior to the date on which 100% of the construction will be completed.

If you have questions please call 785-296-3401 and as to speak to one of our Fire Protection Specialist.