Prevention & Inspection


Fire Prevention & Inspection Programs
The City of Arlington Fire Department is actively involved in many different aspects of Fire Prevention. Fire Prevention activities are coordinated by the Department's Deputy Fire Chief and include areas such as code compliance, plan reviews, ordinance/standards oversight, and fire inspections.

The inspection program's goal is to eliminate hazards that contribute to the risk of fire or injury within the city limits. The goals of the annual Fire & Life Safety Inspection

Programs are to: 

• Reduce the likelihood of fire emergencies and as a result, prevent the loss of property and personal injury. 
• Contribute to the safety of citizens. 
• Control the cost of fire suppression and other emergency responses. 
• Increase the Fire Department's exposure to the public. 
• Familiarize firefighters with all properties in the City.

Fire Prevention Information

• Smoking: The leading cause of fire fatalities 
• Electrical: Fire Safety Considerations 
• Smoke Alarms: Use in the home 
• Home Safety Inspection: Fire prevention checklist for the home 
• Your Home Safety Inspection Guide 
• The Fire Department has a limited supply of free Smoke Detectors available.
• Print our Home Escape Plan Worksheet for an easy way to plan for any home emergency

Inspections:
Businesses are inspected at least once a year depending on the nature of the business in conformance with the International Fire Code. Some of the items the Engine Companies look for during an average fire inspection in a business to increase fire safety are as follows: 

• Readily visible addresses. 
• Properly installed and currently serviced fire extinguishers. 
• Exits that are clear, visible, and correctly marked. 
• Electrical hazards, i.e., unapproved extension cords and multi-plug adapters. 
• Sprinkler, standpipe, and special extinguishing systems properly serviced and tested. 
• Fire alarm systems properly serviced and tested. 
• Other potential hazards such as proper storage of flammable materials. 
• Emergency lighting. 
• A city business license. 
• Code compliance specific to the occupancy inspected.

The Department utilizes a self-inspection form for low risk businesses that have demonstrated a high compliance with adherence to the International Fire Code. More complex and detailed inspections require site visits and follow up. Violations of the International Fire Code are addressed to the property owners at the time of the inspection and may necessitate review by the Fire Marshal and the City of Arlington's Code Compliance Officer. Although most violations can be easily addressed once identified, Critical life safety hazards, if not addressed, can require immediate action on the part of the Fire Department.